The Woodward Opera House Conservancy is pleased to announce the addition of Dena Hess-McKinstry to The Woodward’s staff as house manager, effective January 1, 2021.

Some of the house manager responsibilities include managing the daily operations of The Woodward Opera House and all associated theatrical, cultural and conference facilities; developing and managing the Conservancy’s budget to support the organization’s programmatic and institutional priorities; supervising all staff and volunteers; overseeing all fundraising activities; fostering productive relationships with governmental agencies, advocacy groups, businesses, arts organizations and the community at large.

“We were very pleased with the number and quality of applications we received for this position,” said Conservancy president Jay Nixon. “With her creative ideas, direct event experience and connection to the community, we believe that Dena is the right fit and will lead us into a successful future.”

With more than 20 years of experience, most recently serving as events coordinator/communications director with Stein Brewing Company, which is located on the first floor of The Woodward, Hess-McKinstry brings a wealth of expertise and direct knowledge of The Woodward with her.

“I am beyond excited to being this new adventure with The Woodward,” she stated. “I have become very familiar with the opera house working with Stein Hospitality. I look forward to continuing to bring in wonderful events, to raise awareness of all The Woodward has to offer, and to be a working part of our community.”

In addition to her new role, Hess-McKinstry also serves as an ambassador for the Knox County Chamber of Commerce, is a member of the Mount Vernon Rotary Club, serves on Main Street Mount Vernon‘s events committee and downtown merchants committee, and is a volunteer for the Mount Vernon Nazarene University Athletic Department. She was also a 2020 Knox County Chamber of Commerce nominee for Volunteer of the Year.

When she’s not serving our community, Hess-McKinstry enjoys spending time with her family including her daughter Breanna and three nieces.