SALISBURY — Partners in Learning has hired a new development director, Amy Vestal.

Vestal received her B.S. in psychology from Appalachian State University. She also has completed courses in behavior analysis through Florida Institute of Technology.

In her career history, she has been an interim director of development and directed summer programs and community service programs for single mothers of children with autism. Vestal has worked in the field of early intervention for nine years and with children with autism for 11 years.

Vestal has worked in public and private not-for-profit school settings, as well as provided in home aid to families. She uses evidence-based practices within her instruction. She also believes tailoring a program that best suits the family’s needs and desires is what allows for the family to successfully achieve their goals.

Vestal focuses on providing parent education and sharing resources so parents can be their children’s best advocate and teacher. She is passionate about doing whatever is necessary to ensure that these resources are available.

“I am very excited to be joining the Partners in Learning family and advocating for funding and services on behalf of the children and families we serve in order to meet our mission and vision for our PIL community,” said Vestal.

“We are excited to have Amy join the Partners in Learning’s family, and with her leadership we will build on Partner’s successful foundation of high quality early care, intervention and education. Amy will oversee the organizations alumni and community relations. Amy will play an integral role in advancing our mission by developing donor strategies and increasing fundraising opportunities,” said Norma Honeycutt, executive director of Partners in Learning.

Vestal began her position at Partners in Learning on Jan. 16.

Partners in Learning is a 501C3 nonprofit organization which serves as the Model Inclusive Center providing care to children six weeks through 5 years of age in Rowan County.

The center is a five-star licensed, nationally accredited program caring for more than 200 children six weeks through 9 years each year. It serves children on-site at Partners in Learning, in childcare centers throughout the community, as well as in the children’s homes.

Partners in Learning has two locations: Catawba College campus and Novant Health. Learn more at http://www.epartnersinlearning.org.