Darlington’s Board of Trustees elected three new members at the May meeting.
Allison (Hunter) Brooks (’79, LD ’14) is an administrative assistant for Brooks Building Group Inc. in Rome, a company she co-founded with her husband. She has served Darlington previously as a member of the Alumni Council, Annual Fund Leadership Board and Strategic Planning Committee. She and her husband, Jeff (’79), are the parents of Kendall (Brooks) Headley (’08) and Hunter Brooks (’10, LD ’23).
"I am excited to have Allison join the Board of Trustees," said Head of School Brent Bell. "Her deep connections and love for Darlington give her great perspective to serve the school during this important time in our history. The fact that Allison was a boarding student who ended up living in Rome and raising two Darlington alums who were day students speaks to her strong relationships at the school. In addition, as a business owner in Rome she understands both the strength and areas of potential of this community."
Melinda Brown of Rome is a stay-at-home mother and former adjunct professor at Shorter University. A dedicated parent volunteer, she is a former president of Pre-K to 8 Tiger Pride. She and her husband, Stephen, are the parents of Banks (’27), Connor (’23), and Lawson Brown (’21).
“Melinda is a thoughtful, discerning, big-picture thinker," said Bell. "As the mom of two alums and one current student, her relationships with the school are deep. She has a clear understanding of the value of an independent school college-preparatory education and will serve well in helping us to continue articulating the value of a Darlington education."
Luke Lester (’84 LD ’13) of Rome is owner of James Bond Inc. He returns to the Board of Trustees after serving previously from 2014-2020. He is also a former president of the Alumni Council. He and his wife, Sandy, are the parents of Grace (’19) and Hattie James Lester (’23).
“I am thrilled that Luke has agreed to rejoin the Board of Trustees," said Bell. "I have worked with him on several boards, including Darlington's, and always appreciate his insight, wisdom, and calm demeanor. Luke is an entrepreneur and that mindset will be valuable to us as we move forward."
Retiring trustees included Kevin Evans (’87), Mary Helen (Wright) Heaner ('77) and John Ware.
