Mount Sequoyah Center announces leadership changes
by October 23, 2019 1:01 pm 790 views
Fayetteville-based Mount Sequoyah Center Inc. announced Wednesday (Oct. 23) that Jess Schload will retire as executive director.
The board of directors has appointed Emily Gentry to assume Schload’s role, and through a reorganization, she will become president and CEO of the nonprofit education and retreat center. Schload’s retirement is effective Dec. 31. Gentry, who is director of programs for the center, will assume the role of president and CEO on Jan. 1.
“I am proud of all that we have accomplished in my tenure at Mount Sequoyah,” Schload said. “The Mountain is in the very capable hands of the staff; I have a deep appreciation for the hard work they put into caring for the campus and its mission. I have had a long career with nonprofit conference centers, and this one is truly unique and special.”
Schload joined Mount Sequoyah Center in May 2016.
“We appreciate the leadership, vision and guidance that Jess has provided this organization during his time here,” said Mike Ross, chairman of the board of directors. “Mount Sequoyah was a different organization three years ago. Jess has been instrumental in shaping Mount Sequoyah into the vital and welcoming community resource that it is today.”
“Furthermore, the board has great confidence in Emily’s ability to take over next year,” Ross added. “The decision to promote from within is the right choice for Mount Sequoyah. Emily knows the organization well and has exhibited great leadership through Camp Sequoyah and our children, youth and adult programs.”
Gentry has worked in multiple roles at the center since 2012, including interim CEO.
“I am honored and humbled by the confidence the board has in me,” Gentry said. “We have a lot more growing to do, and I am excited about the opportunities we have in Northwest Arkansas. I know how vital a culture of teamwork is to our success, and I am thrilled to share the leadership of Mount Sequoyah with my colleagues.”
Following are other leadership changes at the center: Rebecca Liles, director of hospitality, has been promoted to vice president and chief operating officer. She will serve over the guest services, culinary, housekeeping and maintenance departments. Christina Karnatz, director of development, has been named vice president of development, communications and marketing.
Established in 1922, Mount Sequoyah Center offers lodging, dining, event, meeting and recreation space for the community and visitors. It also produces educational programs such as summer camps, swimming and tennis.