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Arts of the Pamlico Executive Director Debra Torrence is stepping down from the organization. 

Torrence has served as the executive director for five years and has supervised several successful projects to improve the Turnage Theatre. These include the roof replacement, the expansion of the youth art program, growing the number of artist exhibits and sales and raising over $4.5 million for the organization. 

“Under (Torrence’s) leadership, AOP has excelled in many ways and we have a strong foundation on which to build the next steps,” said Roland Wyman, Chair of Arts of the Pamlico. “Together with our community, members, sponsors, and funding partners, AOP’s strong team of staff and board members are growing a high-performing organization that is moving smoothly toward its 50th year as an incorporated non-profit organization and economic engine in Beaufort County.” 

According to Wyman, Arts of the Pamlico is currently searching for a new executive director and hopes to have the role filled by Sep. 1, 2021. 

“To AOP, I have a deep appreciation for all their support and for allowing me to lead the organization into its next phase. I appreciate all the time, energy and resources the board and staff members have given over the years to strive toward a common mission,” Torrence said in a statement regarding her departure. “To the Beaufort County community, I would like to say a big thank you for embracing the arts and continuing to support the arts and culture in the community. So many people have given us their time and money and patronage and that support really means a lot for creating a robust hub for arts and culture at the historic Turnage Theatre.”

The future for AOP and Torrence looks bright. While Torrence plans to transition to the mountains of North Carolina over the next few months, she plans to continue supporting AOP as they begin the next phase of development in repairing the Vaudeville Theatre located above the main Turnage theatre stage. 

“I’m excited for what’s next with AOP and I look forward to my future contributions to the organization,” Torrence said.