Vella named executive director of Learning Tree Farm

“This is a bittersweet moment as Pat Rau decides to retire and take a well-deserved leave,” Hennessey said. “She has provided Learning Tree Farm with outstanding leadership for the past four years.”

“At the same time, we are delighted that Dona Vella will step into that role and continue the strong tradition of community service established nearly 40 years ago by our founders Sally Keyes and Jean Ryan,” Hennessey said.

Most recently, Vella served as the deputy director for development and external affairs at the Dayton Art Institute. She also worked as director of development for Cox Arboretum from 2004 to 2008 and executive director of Kids Voting Ohio/Founders Region from 1997 through 2004.