In November, we received the sad news of the resignations of two valued members of our staff: our Director of Finance and Operations, Rebecca Chatfield, and our Facilities Manager, Dianne Upton.
Rebecca Chatfield has served East Shore with tireless dedication, impeccable skill, and professionalism. This marks her second tenure with us, and she concludes this month with seven years of service as our DFO. Rebecca has led us expertly through all matters of finance, operations, and the efficient management and monetization of our campus, which includes five commercial buildings. Even as her final day approaches on December 15th, Rebecca, ever dedicated to East Shore, will stay on temporarily to ensure our 2024 financial books are closed and our vital bookkeeping continues smoothly. Please join me in showing our deep gratitude for Rebecca’s service, dedication, and excellence.
Dianne Upton has been a member of East Shore since 2005, serving as a volunteer and then a paid staff member for over 10 years. As Facilities Manager, Dianne has been the nerve center of every activity on our campus—from worship services and programs to long-term rentals, weddings, recitals, climate revivals, and summer camps. If it happened at East Shore, Dianne was involved, ensuring that it happened smoothly and well. She has also expertly managed the maintenance and functioning of our facilities, coordinating with our Caretaker, Celil Cakmak, to keep our campus welcoming and well-kept.
While we are saddened that Dianne is leaving our staff, we are grateful that she remains a member of East Shore. Please join me in expressing our heartfelt appreciation for Dianne’s service, dedication, and excellence over the years.
In the interim, the Board and Staff Leadership Team are working with the whole staff to ensure immediate needs are met. A Transition Working Group has also been put together to work on long-term strategies for staffing and volunteer work. Please look for opportunities to volunteer at East Shore as well as possible new ways to ensure your room requests are met. Thank you for your understanding and patience while we work.
by David Langrock, President Board of Trustees