Madison Ward is stepping down as Whiteville’s director of downtown development.
The Tabor City native announced her resignation Tuesday. City Manager Sean Martin shared the news with city council at Tuesday’s meeting. Ward’s resignation is effective Aug. 29.
“During my time with the City, I also experienced tremendous personal growth,” Ward said in a social media post. “I earned my master’s degree, gained invaluable leadership experience, and built friendships and relationships that I will carry with me for a lifetime.
“As difficult as it is to leave something you love, I’ve learned that when God places something on your heart, it’s our responsibility to trust Him enough to take the next step. Sometimes that means walking away from what’s comfortable, believing that when one door closes, He is already opening another.”
Ward helped in the rebranding of the Pecan Harvest Festival into a music festival, as well as the Christmas festival at Vineland Station and other events. She spearheaded the downtown Farmers Market on the lawn at Vineland. Ward also played a major role in the ongoing Madison Street Park project.
“Together, we built programs that strengthened our downtown, supported local businesses, created opportunities for growth, and organized events that brought thousands of people together to celebrate everything that makes Whiteville special,” she wrote. “I will always be proud of what we accomplished together.”
“While this chapter is coming to a close on Aug. 28,” Ward wrote, “I truly believe the best is yet to come. I’m excited to pursue a dream, and I look forward to sharing what’s next with all of you very soon.”
