The EPIC Center Announces Leadership Transition. Deana Rose Named Interim Executive Director as Emma Barnes Steps Down to Focus on Family
The EPIC Center has announced a leadership transition as Executive Director Emma Barnes prepares to step down from her role to focus on her family. Effective October 1, Deana Rose, currently the Kinston Center Director, will assume the additional role of Interim Executive Director.
Barnes departure marks the conclusion of a meaningful season of leadership and service to The EPIC Center, a Christ-centered pregnancy resource center serving women and families facing unplanned pregnancies in Eastern North Carolina.
“It has been an incredible privilege to serve The EPIC Center and to witness the ways God is working through this ministry,” Barnes said. “As I step into a new season with my family, I am grateful to know that EPIC has strong, experienced leaders in place who care deeply about our mission and the women and families we serve. I am confident in Deana’s leadership and excited to see what God has in store for EPIC in this next chapter.”
Rose brings a background in public health as well as pregnancy center experience to the Interim Executive Director role. She lives in Kinston with her husband, Dr. Joel Rose, and her two sons and will continue serving as Kinston Center Director while assuming her new responsibilities.
Leadership will also remain strong at EPIC’s New Bern location, where Sheila Theune will continue serving as Center Director. Together, Rose and Theune will lead EPIC’s two centers alongside the organization’s staff, volunteers, and Board.
“I am honored to step into this role and grateful for the opportunity to serve EPIC in this new capacity,” Rose said. “Our mission remains the same, to compassionately serve women and families, provide life-affirming support and practical resources, and share the hope of the Gospel. I am thankful for the foundation that has been built and look forward to continuing this work alongside our incredible team and community.”
Throughout the leadership transition, EPIC remains committed to its mission of providing compassionate, life-affirming support and equipping women with the resources they need to choose life for their babies and thrive as parents.
The EPIC Center is a nonprofit organization that supports women and families with offices in Kinston and New Bern. EPIC provides a range of services including free pregnancy tests, free limited ultrasounds, prenatal and parenting classes, and material assistance, all aimed at empowering women to make informed choices and supporting them throughout their journey to motherhood. For more information about the EPIC Center and its services, please visit easternpregnancy.net.
Deana Rose
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