Dear Elkton Community and friends in other areas,

I am excited to be taking on a new co-executive director leadership role with Marie Montgomery here at the Elkton Community Education Center! After five wonderful years of calling Elkton home, and having served as the education programs manager here, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible spirit of our community, and I can’t wait to deepen our connections and collaborate in meaningful ways.

I spent my early childhood in Kenai, Alaska and have some really fond memories of that life. When I was 8, we moved to Drew, Oregon, a small rural area near Tiller. This is where most of my “growing up” memories tie back to. I finally got a dad! And, I began to really absorb the values of hard work and neighborly kindness from my parents. I spent my weekends and summers working with my dad who was a welder and mechanic, an amazing storyteller and singer, fierce protector and someone who lived true to his beliefs and convictions in taking care of his family & neighbors; lending a hand whenever possible. My mother—the gentle yet unwavering glue of our blended family, has always inspired me with her strength, compassion, patience and ability to find the light through every storm. These lessons shaped my commitment to fostering a community where everyone feels valued and supported.

As a creative soul, animal lover, and avid reader, I am passionate about lifelong learning and sharing kindness in all I do. Some other interests of mine are fiber art, regenerative agriculture, and the Scottish Gaelic language. Embracing new challenges enriches my life and perspective. Through this lens and philosophy, I really see our programs at ECEC not just as educational opportunities but as pathways to build a stronger, more interconnected community.

Together, we have the opportunity to continue to build on the legacy over these last 25 years of ECEC cultivating an environment where creativity, education, and community spirit truly flourish. I am eager to hear your ideas and dreams for ECEC’s future and to work hand in hand with all of you—our volunteers, donors, neighbors and friends—to continue building community right here in Elkton.

Thank you for your unwavering support, and I can’t wait to meet many of you in the coming weeks! Here’s to a vibrant future together!

In Kindness always,

~Deb

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