Author: North Carolina Arts Council
After a career defined by visionary leadership in the craft community, Marlene True will retire as Executive Director of Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft in December 2024. Marlene is Pocosin’s second Executive Director, serving in this position for the past 12 years. Her retirement coincides with Pocosin Arts’ 30th Anniversary year.
After receiving her Master of Fine Arts from East Carolina University, Marlene began her arts career as an adjunct professor of art at Southern Illinois University and College of the Albemarle. Her journey took a transformative turn in 2009 with a residency at Pocosin Arts. Following the residency, Marlene became the Metals Incubator Program Director and led the creation of the school’s new metals studio. Then, as Programs and Marketing Director, Marlene helped broaden Pocosin Arts’ digital footprint and audience engagement. In December 2011, she became Pocosin Arts’ second Executive Director since 1994.
Under Marlene's leadership, Pocosin Arts witnessed remarkable growth. She introduced week-long summer workshops. and developed comprehensive year-round programs for both youth and adults. She led a $1.8 million fundraising effort that funded a considerable expansion of the school’s programs; during the pandemic, this included an online workshop program that helped the school continue serving its community. Marlene's received the Grable Foundation’s Celebratory Award in recognition of her commitment to arts education.
"Navigating the evolution of Pocosin Arts has been an extraordinary journey of growth for the organization and myself,” said Marlene. “I am profoundly thankful for our staff's collective spirit of innovation and the support of volunteers, donors, foundations, and the Board of Directors, which have been pivotal in realizing our vision. As I embrace retirement, I look forward to observing Pocosin Arts' unfolding success from a new vantage point, enriched by the memories and connections forged here."
C. James Meyer, Board Chair of Pocosin Arts, reflected on her accomplishments. "Marlene’s pioneering leadership has indelibly positioned Pocosin Arts among premier craft organizations,” he said. “Her commitment to excellence and innovation has profoundly shaped our community. We are deeply grateful for her service and extend our best wishes for her retirement."
Former North Carolina Arts Council Deputy Director Nancy Trovillion said, "Marlene’s impact on the craft community extends far beyond Pocosin Arts. Her innovative leadership and unwavering dedication have not only transformed Pocosin into a destination for craft education, but have also significantly contributed to the creative economy and arts ecology of Eastern North Carolina. Marlene's ability to envision and execute transformative projects has been inspirational. Her legacy is one of enduring commitment to the arts, education, and community engagement. I have had the good fortune to watch her remarkable journey and commend her for all she has done to help make Pocosin Arts a bright arts beacon in this very important region of our state. She is beloved by all who know and work with her and will be greatly missed.”
With heartfelt gratitude, the North Carolina Arts Council joins the Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft in thanking Marlene True for her remarkable contributions to the arts and culture ecosystem of northeast North Carolina! We wish you a rewarding and joyous retirement, Marlene.
For more information about Pocosin Arts School of Fine Craft, visit www.pocosinarts.org.