AXTON – Carlisle School announced that Melinda East-Brightwell has been appointed as the new athletic director.
Brightwell who has most recently served as the registrar and the upper school administrative assistant succeeds Mancino Craighead who held the position for four years.
“Athletics are a crucial part of the Carlisle experience, and I love to watch our student-athletes compete,” Brightwell said. “I look forward to working with our athletes, coaches, and administration. I hope to carry on Mancino’s dedication to the school and the athletic program by continuing with the amazing foundation he has provided for Carlisle athletics. I am open to suggestions made by the members of our Carlisle family.”
She is the second woman to serve as athletic director in the school’s history.
Brightwell will begin her new role officially on September 9.
She will continue to serve as school registrar.
“Mrs. Brightwell has been an integral part of Carlisle athletics for a number of years; her business management expertise, demonstrated leadership, her commitment to the development of a successful athletic program that values academic excellence and integrity make her the ideal person to serve as our Director,” Head of School Gracie Agnew said.
Brightwell, who has an MBA from Averett University, has been with Carlisle School since 2010.
She and her husband have three children at Carlisle.
"They are avid fans of Carlisle athletics, and she has worked very closely with Mancino Craighead over the years to support the athletics program," the press release stated.