MANSFIELD, Ohio–Barb Byrd said she woke up on Friday feeling like a kid on Christmas morning, and rightfully so – after 15 years working as the marketing manager for the Renaissance Theatre, Byrd has given herself the gift of retirement.
Byrd first started her marketing career at the Renaissance in May of 2000 as a part-time employee. It was the first marketing job she’d ever held.
“I kind of got thrown into the position unexpectedly and had to claw and learn my way,” she said.
But as a lover of theater and with a supportive staff around her, Byrd grew to love her new role as it eventually merged into a full-time position.
“I got to go to the shows and that was great. We had a good time. And it’s really been a good time,” she said. “We’ve had some rocky years with the economy, but we just stick together and struggle through it and we’ve made it.”
Colleen Cook, former development director for the Renaissance, will be stepping into Byrd’s role as marketing manager. Cook has been with the Renaissance for three years, and Byrd said she is confident in handing over the reins.
“[Colleen] is fully capable and has boundless energy and boundless ideas, and she definitely has youth on her side,” said Byrd.
In the meantime, Byrd is looking forward to retirement – in particular, having the energy to pursue projects and activities outside of work.
“The idea that I can do stuff now, or I can choose not to do it that day – I can go to lunch or go to Columbus and see people I haven’t seen in a long time – having that freedom to be able to choose what you’re going to do, I’m looking forward to that,” said Byrd.
Still, as she collected flowers, gift baskets and well wishes for her last day of work on Friday, Byrd doesn’t see herself letting go of the Renaissance so easily.
“I always said it was the best job I’ve ever had,” she said.
