November 16, 2010
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Lake Junaluska, NC - Bishop Larry M. Goodpaster and The Board of Directors of Lake Junaluska Assembly cordially invite all residents and friends of Lake Junaluska Assembly to a reception honoring The Rev. Jimmy L. Carr on the occasion of his retirement Sunday afternoon, December 12, 2010, from three until 5 o'clock. The reception will be hosted in the International Room at the Lambuth Inn at Lake Junaluska, NC.
Since June 2000, Rev. Dr. Jimmy L. Carr has faithfully served as the executive director of Lake Junaluska. During this time, Lake Junaluska has undergone a transformation. After a decade of hard work and dedication at Lake Junaluska to promote diversity and inclusiveness, Carr announced his retirement, effective at the conclusion of 2010.
During his time as executive director Carr successfully spearheaded several major campaigns, including a fund-raising campaign that collected $11 million for improvements at Lake Junaluska, the establishment of a workplace discipleship program, and renovations of several lodging and meeting facilities around campus. As a result of Carr’s leadership, the Lake Junaluska staff has striven to provide a quality experience to all who visit Lake Junaluska.
“We are appreciative of Jimmy Carr and his work over the past 11 years,” said Bishop Larry Goodpaster, board chairperson for Lake Junaluska Assembly. “His strong leadership has helped guide Lake Junaluska in a positive direction and his work has had a lasting impact on many lives.”
When one first arrives on the Lake Junaluska campus, it’s hard not to notice one of the most visible monuments to Carr’s legacy. The Joseph and Shirley Bethea Welcome Center, named for the first African-American bishop elected in the Western North Carolina Conference and his wife, welcomes visitors to Lake Junaluska. Carr established the campaign to build the new welcome center and his work ensured that the new building would represent the all-inclusive philosophy of The United Methodist Church.
“It was a courageous decision and initiative that was embraced by all in the jurisdiction,” commented Mr. James H. Salley, associate vice-chancellor for institutional advancement at Africa University. “Under his leadership, he was able to get that done. There is not another structure like that in Methodism anywhere. It’s the first building like that on the Assembly that is named in memory of an African-American person and it’s for one who greatly deserved the recognition.”
Prior to his appointment to the Southeastern Jurisdiction position, Carr served as associate general secretary of Deacon and Diaconal Ministries with the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. He was instrumental in the development of the Order of Deacon, having participated in the study of ministry for two quadrennia on behalf of the general church prior to serving in that appointment. From 1986–1988, Rev. Carr also served on the committee that began the process for establishing Africa University in Mutare, Zimbabwe.
During his time with Africa University, Carr, along with the leadership of the Mississippi Conference, helped erect the Cross and Flame that is a prominent fixture on the university campus.
“Jimmy will be remembered for doing the right thing at the right time when it was needed,” continued Salley. “He’s a trailblazer and has always been on the cutting edge of humanitarian issues in church and society.”
Upon retirement, Jimmy and Joy Carr will divide their retirement between Lake Junaluska and Brandon, Mississippi. Carr and his wife plan to enjoy spending more time with their children and grandchildren.
Rev. Carr is an ordained deacon in The United Methodist Church. A native of Forest, Mississippi, he was educated at Forest schools, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Scarritt College, Nashville, Tennessee, where he was awarded the master of arts degree in Christian education. He has served as a member of the board of trustees of Rust College since 1995 and chairs the student affairs committee. He also serves as a member of the executive committee.
“I believe that the best days for Lake Junaluska are ahead. We have dealt with many transitional issues and implemented many good ministry and business practices that will carry us into the future,” commented Carr. “It has been a real joy being at Lake Junaluska. I will always cherish the support and friendship of my co-workers, The United Methodist Church, and the local community.”
For more information about Rev. Carr’s retirement, please visit www.lakejunaluska.com/jimmy-carr.