As the seasons change, we too have change at Silver Lining Mentoring. With both appreciation and sadness, we announce Barbara Best’s departure as Executive Director of Silver Lining Mentoring.
From Executive Director Barbara Best
“It is with mixed emotions and a profound sense of gratitude that I write to let you know that I will be stepping down from the Executive Director role at Silver Lining Mentoring. It has been one of the great honors of my life and career to help serve and lead this amazing community over the last two years during a time of extended challenge – with joy, purpose, and connection. I have been reflecting on my purpose in the world – which is taking me in surprising new directions – and it is clear to me that I want to get back into the field of leadership development. I’ve been working with the dedicated leadership team over the last few weeks to ensure a smooth transition. I take great comfort in the strong, effective leadership at Silver Lining that will continue under CEO Colby Swettberg and know that the organization is in good hands. Being at Silver Lining has been a gift and a transformational experience, and I thank each of you for the honor of serving this brave, resilient, and strong community.”
From Board Chair Anne Bowie
“The SLM community appreciates Barbara’s steadfast leadership through this challenging pandemic, where Barbara’s care and passion supported SLM staff, centered youth voice and encouraged efforts toward more just and equitable communities. We have been working collaboratively on a thoughtful transition over the last few weeks and will wish Barbara well as she ends her time at SLM on October 29th.”
From CEO Colby Swettberg
“Barbara’s leadership of our local work has been a gift to our team, our mentors and our young people. Leading through this complicated and historic time has required a unique combination of grit, heart, and hope. We are grateful to Barbara for bringing the best of herself to our work.
The need for Silver Lining’s services is ever present and our commitment to showing up for young people in foster care is unwavering. As we wish Barbara well, our team will continue to innovate and build on the strength of the mentoring relationships that you, our dedicated community, have helped to make possible.”
Our work will continue uninterrupted through this transition under the leadership of Colby Swettberg, CEO. If you have any questions about this transition, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Anne Bowie, Board Chair
Colby Swettberg, CEO
Barbara Best, Executive Director
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CONTACT:
Casey Dillon
casey@silverliningmentoring.org
