CHARLOTTESVILLE (WINA) – The passing of the proverbial baton happens a week from today (Wednesday) at the Center at Belvidere as Peter Thompson had his last weekly update on Morning News as Executive Director. Thompson makes way for new Executive Director Melanie Benjamin next week, and says November 1 is her first day with one of her first official duties being with Jay James on Morning News.

Thompson says he’s known Melanie for some 20 years, and she’s worked the last 5 at The Center as Director of Philanthropy.

Thompson, who’s overseen program changes and expansion, and the move to the current large facility on Belvedere, will stay on with a transition through November 30… after which he’ll step down after 24 years.