Denise Adams joins Community Foundation staff as Finance Manager

 

We are very pleased to announce a new addition to our staff.

Denise Adams joined the Community Foundation in April 2023 as our Finance Manager. Denise retired as Controller and Assistant Treasurer in early 2023 from Winterthur Museum, Garden, and Library (Wilmington, DE) after a remarkable 37-year career there.

“My high school math teacher encouraged me to study accounting in college,” explained Denise. “After graduating I worked at a small CPA firm and obtained my CPA certification. I knew I didn’t want to be a tax accountant, so I looked into opportunities with area nonprofits.”

As Controller Denise managed Winterthur’s $25M operating budget, had oversight of $450M in endowment and pension plan portfolios, and managed all facets of their business office. She chaired the Capital Budget committee; negotiated auditing services and insurance and risk management policies and renewals; and guided staff to produce audit work papers, financial statements, and tax returns; among other duties and as her role evolved.

Denise found our Community Foundation as she and her husband Van were considering semi-retirement and spending more time on the Outer Banks. They have owned properties here since 2001; in the accepting our part-time Finance Manager position, Denise said her ‘dreams came true.’

“The Outer Banks Community Foundation has so much to offer our community,” Denise said. “This is a great place for me to use my skills and experience to make a difference.”

In her spare time, Denise loves gardening, canning, and relaxing on the beach with her husband Van, and two dogs, Annie and Peaches. Denise can be reached at denise@obcf.org. Please join us in welcoming Denise to the Community Foundation and resident life on the Outer Banks.