More than 200 people attended a three-hour welcoming reception for United Community Ministries' new Executive Director Cynthia N. Hull last Thursday at UCM Headquarters on Fordson Road just off Richmond Highway. "I'm very honored to have all these people come to welcome me," Hull said greeting various members of the crowd.
Hull began her duties as UCM's executive director on July 2. During her 30-year career of non-profit leadership in the social services arena, Hull has worked in the fields of mental health, senior care and substance abuse. Prior to joining UCM, she served for 14 years as President/Executive Director of Offender Aid and Restoration (OAR) of Arlington County, Inc.
"I believe she will be a great asset to UCM and the work we have to accomplish along the Route 1 corridor," said the Rev. Keary Kincannon, pastor, Rising Hope United Methodist Mission Church. UCM has been very active in efforts to provide more affordable housing along with Rising Hope Church as a member of Ventures In Community.
"The field of mental health is going to be one of our prime initiatives in the next General Assembly. That was brought home by the Virginia Tech tragedy," said State Senator Linda T. "Toddy" Puller talking with Hull.
The reception was planned and coordinated by UCM's Board and staff. Although there was no formal program or presentations, Hull was kept busy circulating among the well wishers and discussing various UCM objectives and needs.
"It has been a particularly busy two weeks. I have been listening and learning a lot," she said.
<1b>— Chuck Hagee