Longtime Bryn Du Mansion employee Athena Koehler selected as new executive director

The Bryn Du Commission has announced the internal promotions of two esteemed employees at the Bryn Du Mansion.

Athena Koehler has been named the executive director, taking over for Bruce Cramer, who is retiring at the end of the month. Tara Gordon has been named the director of marketing, programming and engagement.

Koehler joined Bryn Du Mansion in February 2012, and has served as the secretary to the commission and office/event coordinator. Holding a hospitality degree from Columbus State, Koehler boasts a 17-year career in the hospitality industry. Her extensive experience working in historical structures drives her dedication to the careful preservation and upkeep required for the historic mansion. Koehler has been an integral part of the operations and restoration efforts at Bryn Du since her start and is eager to continue this work in her new role.

Gordon has served as the program and promotions coordinator at the mansion since September 2021. Before joining Bryn Du, Tara was employed by Denison University for more than a decade. With her entire working career based in Granville, Gordon looks forward to increased community involvement and engagement opportunities in her new role. Bringing a wealth of non-profit event planning and production experience, Tara is excited to build upon Bryn Du's existing programs focused on culture, recreation and education.

Candi Moore, President of the Bryn Du Commission, expressed her delight at the internal promotions, stating, "The Bryn Du Commission Board of Trustees is thrilled that it was able to promote from within to create a formidable management team to lead the next chapter of the mansion’s story. During our broad search for new leadership, the internal candidates quickly rose to the top. The future of Bryn Du Mansion is in good hands."

The Bryn Du Commission, with support from the Village of Granville, has been providing program and event facilities for the community's benefit while maintaining a commitment to historic preservation since 2004. The commission is proud to be a valuable resource for the community and maintains a conscientious approach to operating costs aligned with its core purpose.

Bryn Du's mission is the historic preservation of the property and providing facilities for the cultural, recreational and educational benefit of the community.

Information submitted bythe Bryn Du Commission.

This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Longtime Bryn Du Mansion employee selected as new executive director