David Mitchell Elected as New Chair of Penn Center Board

News Summary

David Mitchell has been elected as the new chair of the Penn Center Board of Trustees in Beaufort, SC. His leadership begins a new chapter as he tackles preservation challenges and community engagement. Mitchell, with prior experience from the Atlanta Preservation Center, aims to uphold the center’s legacy while addressing issues such as cultural preservation and development threats on St. Helena Island.

Exciting Changes at the Penn Center: David Mitchell Takes the Helm!

Beaufort, South Carolina, is buzzing with news that David Mitchell has been elected as the new chair of the Penn Center Board of Trustees. His election took place on November 21, 2024, and he is all set for a three-year term, with the possibility to extend his role for another three years. This change comes after the tenure of Deloris Pringle, who served her two terms diligently and stepped down in January 2025.

Who is David Mitchell?

At 51 years old, Mitchell is no stranger to the world of cultural preservation. He previously made waves as the executive director of the Atlanta Preservation Center. Bringing his rich experience to the Penn Center, he aims to face the complex challenges that lie ahead. His new position comes with significant responsibility, leading a center renowned for its role in preserving the narratives of enslaved people and its important place in UNESCO’s prestigious Network of Places of History and Memory.

The Heritage of the Penn Center

The Penn Center, located on St. Helena Island, carries a rich history—having hosted influential figures such as Martin Luther King Jr.. It has been a beacon of hope and education, even providing agricultural training for Peace Corps workers. Mitchell is determined to maintain the center’s legacy and build on its foundation while also navigating the complex dialogues surrounding racial and class challenges in the South.

Challenges Ahead

One of the major challenges Mitchell is gearing up to tackle is the fight to protect the St. Helena Island Cultural Protection Overlay. This essential overlay plays a crucial role in preserving the distinct Gullah Geechee culture by restricting developments deemed inappropriate for the area, such as golf courses and gated communities. Mitchell sees this protection as vital for maintaining the integrity and mission of the Penn Center.

There has been a stir recently with attempts by developers to construct a new golf resort on Pine Island. This proposal has hit a legal snag, and a court case regarding the developers’ requests is currently making its way through the judicial system. The community’s reaction has been vigilant. Many locals have come together to discuss their concerns over potential impacts on cultural events, such as the beloved Heritage Days Parade.

Community and Communication

Mitchell acknowledges the importance of these conversations and emphasizes the need for community unity. Recently, County Sheriff P.J. Tanner defended changes made to the parade routes, citing the necessity of managing traffic effectively. This decision reflects the delicate balance between preserving local traditions and addressing public safety concerns.

The Penn Center stands as more than just a historical site; it is a living institution that plays a pivotal role in fostering dialogues about critical issues affecting the community. As *David Mitchell* steps into this prominent role, the eyes of Beaufort—and indeed, the broader cultural preservation community—are on him. His leadership could mean great strides in ensuring that the legacy of the Penn Center continues to thrive amid evolving challenges.

With the mission of honoring the past while keeping a keen eye on the future, Mitchell’s chairmanship could mark a new chapter for the Penn Center. As he navigates the complexities of cultural preservation, one thing is clear: open dialogues, community involvement, and steadfast commitment to heritage will remain at the forefront of his agenda.

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Additional Resources

• The Post and Courier: David Mitchell – Penn Center, St. Helena Island
• Your Island News: Penn Center Hosting Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
• Island Packet: News Article
• Wikipedia: Gullah
• The Guardian: Gullah Geechee – St. Helena Island, South Carolina
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Gullah