Leila Lenore Named Executive Director in Ardmore

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release – February 22, 2010

Lenore Named Executive Director in Ardmore

(Ardmore, OK) – After an exhaustive search covering several states the Goddard Center's Primary Board of Trustees found the best person for the job right in their own backyard. The Board announced Thursday that they had selected Ardmore's own Leila Lenore as the new Executive Director. Lenore graduated from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 1993 with a B.A. in Communications.

Lenore, who has served as the Interim Director since last November, was previously the Center's Marketing Coordinator before moving into the position of Assistant Director last year. In addition to having over a decade of experience in marketing non-profits in south central Oklahoma, Lenore is completing her Master's of Library and Informational Sciences degree at the University of Oklahoma with a focus on the management and operations of non-profit organizations..

"When the Board met Thursday evening to vote for the new director, it was unanimous.” stated Primary Board President, Millard Ingram, "Ms. Lenore had some very tough competition but in the end we all agreed that she embodied all those qualities that we wanted in our next director. We know we made the right decision and we're excited about moving the Center forward.”

The Center's Primary Board of Trustees formed a Search Committee back in November to assist them in locating a new director. Dr. David Powell, Superintendent of the Southern Oklahoma Technology Center was asked to serve on this committee, "I am very excited about the future of the Goddard Center with Leila Lenore at the helm,” stated Powell "She is a very forward thinking individual that will ensure the entire community reaps the benefits of this wonderful cultural resource. With her leadership, I envision continued increase in the number of activities, active membership and interest from the general public.”

"I feel honored to have been chosen for this position” stated Lenore, "Every job I've ever had and every class I've ever taken has all culminated into this day. It's the kind of job where you look forward to getting out of bed everyday and going into the office.” Lenore credits the overwhelming support of the Center's Board and staff for making the transition so smooth. "Co-workers can make or break you on the job” Lenore continues, "I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with. We have a great office atmosphere. Everybody is excited to be here and to work hard to make sure that the Goddard Center is the best it can be.” In addition to the Center's board and staff, Lenore also credits the many committee members and volunteers for their assistance during the transitional period and for their countless hours of dedication to the success of the organization.

Asked about her plans for the future, Lenore stated that she wants to continue to reach out to the artists and artistic communities in and around Ardmore as well as continue to grow the Center's Art Education Outreach Program. "I believe the children in southern Oklahoma deserve just as many opportunities and life experiences as those afforded to children in metropolitan cities. I want children to feel comfortable coming to the Goddard Center, to be exposed to positive influences and expand their creativity through the arts.”

The Goddard Center is located at 401 1^st Ave. SW in Ardmore. Office hours are Tuesday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Saturdays 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Ms. Lenore can be reached in the office at (580) 226-0909 or by e-mail at Leila@goddardcenter.org.