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ŷ����b��Ƭ extends its deepest gratitude to Kit Lilly and Diane Stone for their extraordinary service and dedication to the organization. With a combined 55 years on the Board of Directors—Kit serving 30 years and Diane 25—their contributions have left an indelible mark on the Center’s mission and growth.

At their final board meeting, Kit and Diane were honored with original artwork created by Edinburg Center clients—a meaningful tribute to two leaders who have always placed people at the heart of everything they do.

Celebrating Kit Lilly’s Leadership

Kit Lilly has been a guiding force on the Board for three decades, including a decade as Board President. During her tenure, she brought deep expertise in banking, financial oversight, real estate financing, and CEO recruitment, helping to shape ŷ����b��Ƭ’s strategic direction and long-term sustainability.

“On behalf of the Board, I’d like to thank Kit for her 30 years of service,” said past Board President Russ Kopp. “When she was Chair, she recruited me and others to reshape the Board.  Her strategic and financial leadership played a critical role in our success. ŷ����b��Ƭ’s strong financial position and stellar reputation are due in large part to Kit’s vision and commitment.”

In addition to her role as Board President, Kit served on the Finance Committee and was instrumental in strengthening the Center’s governance practices. Though she has contributed her talents to other nonprofits, Kit felt a unique alignment with ŷ����b��Ƭ’s values and operations. “Edinburg really stood out because of how well they were run. I believed in their approach,” Kit shared.

Kit is looking forward to devoting more time to her lifelong passion—animal rescue—through involvement in multiple animal-focused nonprofit organizations.

Honoring Diane Stone’s Service

Diane Stone has been a cornerstone of ŷ����b��Ƭ Board for 25 years, serving for many of those years as Vice Chair and as a member of the Quality Improvement and Compliance Committee. Her expertise in operations, governance, government affairs, and strategic planning helped guide the organization through numerous pivotal moments.

“Diane brought a remarkable depth of understanding to complex operational issues,” said Kopp. “Her insights helped shape strategic decisions that will benefit the Center well into the future.”

Reflecting on her time on the Board, Diane said, “A good board brings good perspective. That’s the kind of board we have at Edinburg. What I found most rewarding was watching the dedication of the staff. They never stop. In a field where improving lives is the goal, their passion is truly inspiring. If they can give their all every day, I can stay on the Board for 25 years.”

Diane is now looking forward to spending more time with her grandson.

“Both Kit and Diane have a shared commitment to excellence, said Patti Maguire, President and CEO of ŷ����b��Ƭ. “Their departure marks the end of an era, but their influence will continue to shape the Center for years to come. We will miss them both immensely.”

Current Board President John Gatto summed it up best when he said, “Both Kit and Diane have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to ŷ����b��Ƭ. They have seen the organization through countless challenges and transitions while always maintaining a laser focus on the people we serve. Their tireless efforts have helped ensure access to innovative care, all within a culture of respect, autonomy, and compassion. It’s been a privilege to work alongside them and to learn from their wisdom, warmth, and leadership.”

On behalf of everyone at ŷ����b��Ƭ, we thank Kit Lilly and Diane Stone for their decades of selfless service. Their leadership has truly helped make ŷ����b��Ƭ what it is today.