Legacy | A Publication of Lena Pope Legacy Spring 2016 | Page 4

New Beginnings
Farewell
Marilyn...
“I am so honored to be a part of this highly respected
organization whose roots reach deep into our
community,” Gearheart said. “I am inspired every day
by the stories of Lena Pope’s collaborative efforts to
wrap around families as the counselors and teachers
individualize care as needed for each child and their
family’s well-being and success.”

A

fter more than 10 years of dedicated and
faithful service as Lena Pope’s Director
of Development and Marketing, Marilyn
Sammons has retired.
“We have a saying at Lena Pope and it is, once a Lena
Pope kid, always a Lena Pope kid,” Marilyn said. “There is
no doubt that after nearly 25 years as staff and volunteer
that Lena Pope will remain a large part of my life and
heart. I am so thankful for the privilege of working with
the amazing passionate staff, and for getting to know the
incredible generosity of the community and individuals
who trust and support Lena Pope to serve its mission.
I am endlessly grateful for the opportunity and now so
happy to welcome the new director, Lynda.”

Lena Pope CEO Todd Landry is excited about the
possibilities that come with Gearheart’s extensive
experience, while he has a heavy heart bidding farewell
to Sammons after working with her for more than
seven years. “Words cannot express our appreciation to
Marilyn for her years of dedicated service to Lena Pope’s
mission. She leaves a lasting legacy of commitment to
Lena Pope, including the recently completed ‘Yes, Mrs.
Pope’ Capital Campaign,” Landry said. “While we are sad
to see Marilyn retire, we are delighted to add Lynda to
our Lena Pope family. She brings a wealth of experience
and insight to our mission and I know our supporters
will enjoy working with her for years to come.”

Lena Pope is pleased to announce Lynda Gearheart has
taken over the leadership position. Gearheart has decades
of experience in both the corporate world through Dally
Advertising, Chesapeake Energy and the nonprofit
sector in North