A Message from Executive Director Tiffany Sturdivant

Last week, the Appalshop Board of Directors voted unanimously to formalize my role as Executive Director. As you may know, I have proudly served as Interim Executive Director since July, and I am honored and humbled to step into this more permanent position. For 55 years, Appalshop has symbolized the collective power of our region’s voices, creativity, and strength, and I thank the Board and the staff for their continued trust in my ability to lead.

Since July, a lot has changed. At the core of this change has been the focused, intentional effort to improve our organizational health. Specifically, we’ve engaged in a consistent, dedicated, and ongoing staff-wide effort toward restructuring Appalshop's governance and management, defining operational and personnel processes and systems, designing and opening communication channels for all staff, and intentionally connecting with our local community. We are engaging in this work not only for ourselves but also because we remain dedicated to our mission and to serving Appalachia.

We couldn’t do this work alone! In addition to securing staff-wide buy-in, we have also sought out and partnered with Rural Support Partners (RSP), a mission-driven consulting organization rooted in Appalachia committed to supporting rural communities and organizations. Our work with RSP will ensure that as we define the work of Appalshop for the next 50 years, we cultivate deep organizational health—which includes staff well-being, equitable structures, and life-giving work—while practicing excellence in leadership and communication. We’ve realized that we must have a clear vision for our collective work as well as a healthy and equitable work culture in order to serve our communities. 

At our core, Appalshop has always been about community—uplifting the stories and experiences of Appalachia that are too often overlooked. As we move forward, my desire is to continue this legacy while also ensuring Appalshop evolves to meet the changing needs of our region. From creating new opportunities for youth to deepening our commitment to environmental and social justice, I am excited about what we can achieve together.

I look forward to continued collaboration with our talented team, dedicated partners, and, most importantly, the people of Appalachia. Together, we will continue to use storytelling as a tool for change and empowerment. Thank you for your trust and support as we embark on this new chapter.

Warmly,

Tiffany Sturdivant

Executive Director, Appalshop