The Spring shelter names new director

By Elisabeth Dyer, Times Staff Writer
Published March 12, 2008

The Spring of Tampa Bay domestic violence shelter has named a longtime non-profit veteran, Joanne Olvera Lighter, as its new executive director.

The Spring's board of directors chose Lighter through a search committee and recommendations from the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Lighter's 30 years of nonprofit work include seven as the CEO of Allegany Franciscan Foundation and Allegany Franciscan Ministries in Clearwater. She oversaw the creation of the Florida Philanthropic Network, a collaboration of foundations.

Lighter has a bachelor's degree in education and English literature from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill .

She replaces Jim Brace, who was interim executive director for six months.

For 30 years, The Spring has served domestic abuse victims, providing shelter, counseling and educational and housing programs.

Elisabeth Dyer can be reached at edyer@sptimes.com or 226-3321.

[Last modified March 12, 2008, 01:48:50]