Retirement of Director Les Dion

Tapply-Thompson Community Center Announces 

Retirement of Director Les Dion 

After Nearly Three Decades of Leadership

   BRISTOL, NH – The Tapply-Thompson Community Center (TTCC) has announced the upcoming retirement of Director Les Dion at the end of 2026, marking the conclusion of nearly three decades of dedicated leadership and service to the community. Dion has served as Director since 1997, making her the longest-serving director in the history of the organization.

   During her tenure, TTCC has experienced significant growth and transformation. Under Dion’s leadership, the organization expanded programming, completed major facility renovations, acquired additional property, and strengthened its role as a cornerstone of the community.

  Numerous programs and initiatives flourished during her time as Director, including Every Child is Ours, Operation Warm, the Westward Bound Teen Expedition, and the One Stop Christmas Shop for Kids, among many others that have positively impacted local families for years.

   In addition to her work at TTCC, Dion has long been involved in a wide range of community organizations and initiatives, including the Rotary Club, School Board, Selectboard, NH Marathon, Slim Baker Foundation, and many more. Her commitment to public service and community engagement has helped shape the greater Newfound Region for generations.

   “Les has been a steady and positive force within the Tapply-Thompson Community Center for many years,” said Rick Alpers, Chair of the TTCC Board of Directors.

“Generations of individuals and families have been positively impacted by her empathy, compassion, and unwavering dedication to serving others. Her passion for the community, combined with her commitment to helping people of all ages, has made a meaningful difference that will be felt for generations to come.”

   Following Dion’s retirement, Assistant Director Dan MacLean will transition into the role of TTCC Director. MacLean has worked alongside Dion for many years and has played an integral role in the organization’s daily operations, programming, and continued growth.

   “We are thrilled to announce the promotion of Dan MacLean as the next Director of the Tapply-Thompson Community Center,” said Alpers. “Dan has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our mission and to the communities we serve. His leadership, vision, and passion for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment make him the ideal person to guide the Community Center into its next chapter. We are confident that under Dan’s direction, the Tapply-Thompson Community Center will continue to grow as a vital resource and gathering place for residents of all ages.”

   “Working alongside Les for so many years has been an incredible experience and privilege,” said MacLean. “Her leadership, compassion, and dedication to this community have shaped not only the Tapply-Thompson Community Center, but also the lives of countless people who have come through our doors. It’s impossible to think about TTCC without thinking about Les and the impact she has had on this organization and community. We are grateful for everything she has built over the years, and as we look ahead, we hope to continue building on the strong foundation she created and make her proud as we carry TTCC forward into the future.”

   TTCC plans to celebrate Dion’s contributions and legacy throughout the coming year while preparing for this important transition and the organization’s next chapter.

The picture below is from the TTCC’s 2024 Westward Bound Teen Expedition trip to the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Les (on the far left) along with a few other adult counselors, brought 12 local teens on a weeklong adventure – this was her 15th year coordinating this amazing program!