The Board of Directors of Blackstone: the Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center announces that Samuel A. McCracken will be joining the retreat and conference center as its new Executive Director, effective July 1, 2011.

Cammie Armstrong, who served as Executive Director for the past six years, announced in January that she will be retiring this summer.

Mr. McCracken comes to VUMAC from DeFoggi Development and Construction Company in Richmond where he served as Senior Vice President.   He is noted as having a strong background in administration and management; marketing strategy; and a comprehensive understanding of facility maintenance and construction.

“Though we interviewed several strong candidates, we could not be more pleased with the Board’s hire of Sam McCracken,” said Tommy Herndon, Executive Director Search Committee member and Harrisonburg District Superintendent.  “He has a record of strong leadership; a commitment to United Methodist values; and a dynamic, but diplomatic personality.”

“The first time I saw VUMAC, I saw endless possibilities,” stated Sam McCracken. “Though the facility has seen substantial challenges, the opportunities that exist in the hospitality field for retreats and conferences are promising.  I believe that VUMAC is positioned for growth and a strong future where I look forward to building on its strengths as we update facility needs and fulfill expansion opportunities.”

In addition to the hire of Sam McCracken, Blackstone announces that it has successfully raised $138,988. to date in it Emergency Appeal to handle growth debt.  “We could not be more thankful to the countless number of individuals, groups, United Methodist Women, United Methodist Men, businesses and churches that have generously donated to our critical need,” said Director of Development Jennifer Wall.  “Because of such generosity, our growth debt is now below $300,000.”

When asked how VUMAC plans to handle the remaining debt, Wall commented, “On April 11, 2011 the Board of Directors of VUMAC received title to the Blackstone property.  While the transfer of title in no way changes our relationship with the United Methodist church, it does give us the opportunity to secure a low interest loan and to be able to more aggressively pursue independent funding opportunities through foundations and governmental agencies.”

For over 115 years VUMAC has accommodated students and guests in Nottoway County.  The facility was founded in 1892 as Blackstone Female Institute; when the college closed its doors in 1955, the Methodist Church took on the responsibility of the property’s maintenance;  at the 1972 Virginia Annual Conference it was decided that a comprehensive plan was to be developed for turning the property into a viable conference center; it was through the tireless efforts of the United Methodist Women that necessary funds were raised to turn the property into the Virginia United Methodist Assembly Center. Today VUMAC continues serves as the non-profit Conference and Retreat center for the United Methodist Virginia Conference.  It also serves with numerous special events and conferences for other denominations, non-profits and state agencies.

VUMAC is listed in both the Virginia Historic Landmarks Registry and the National Register of Historic Places.  It is one of Virginia’s cherished institutions.  Amid the historic buildings and grounds, VUMAC strives to honor its United Methodist heritage as it looks to future growth and fulfilling the needs of those it serves.