Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center announced the appointment of Ericka Downing as the center's new executive director.

Now serving the Rutherford County community for 34 years, DV & SA Center specializes in healing and protective services for all victims of personal violence through 24-hour crisis support, emergency shelter, counseling, and advocacy services.

Downing (below) brings Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center more than 17 years of organizational leadership and 20 years of experience supporting Middle Tennessee judicial systems. A life-long Rutherford County resident, she brings a wealth of knowledge in project management, community development, fiscal responsibility and innovation to the center. She possesses a bachelor's degree from MTSU and has a passion for serving this community and has been a volunteer supporting domestic violence for close to 15 years.

"We are excited to have Ericka join our team as our new Executive Director," said Mitzi Newbill, Board Chair for the center. "We believe she has the talent and capabilities to continue the great work our former director Karen Lampert has done for our community. Over the past 3 years through Karen's leadership, we grew our team, purchased expanded office space and launched new programs to serve Rutherford County's rapid growth. We have a bright future and look forward to how we grow our presence and awareness in our community. We will miss Karen and thank her for all her innovative work while supporting our program."  

The center will be hosting a community meet and greet in early January to formally introduce and welcome Downing to the team.

Stay connected with the Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Center on their website at dvpshelter.org or through social media @DVSAcenter for details on this and for all the latest happenings at the center.  

ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & SEXUAL ASSAULT CENTER

The DV&SA Center's mission is to protect victims, prevent violence, and empower survivors. The center accomplishes this by providing citizens of Rutherford County with the resources and assistance necessary to effectively deal with the personal, social and legal implications of victimization by domestic violence and sexual assault.