The Unified New Cassel Community Revitalization Corporation (UNCCRC) is pleased to announce that Kennetha Pettus has accepted the position of executive director. Pettus's duties will center on UNCCRC's continued efforts to improve the quality of life in the Westbury/New Cassel community.

Pettus has an extensive background in real estate and community development. She worked with a prominent Long Island law firm handling tax assessment issues and served as vice-president of community relations for a major housing development company.

Pettus, a graduate of Hunter College who has received professional education certificates from the New York University School of Professional Studies, is involved with numerous professional groups, including the Institute of Real Estate Management. She received her Accredited Residential Manager (ARM) and New York Accredited Realty Manager (NYARM) designations; is a member of the New York Commercial Real Estate Women, Women in Housing and Finance and Women Economic Developers of Long Island (WEDLI).

Pettus is active in community affairs, loves her hometown of Hempstead and strives to contribute to the quality of life of her neighboring towns. She is a past board member of the Hempstead Village Chamber of Commerce, a graduate of the Civilian Police Academy and a member of both the Incorporated Village of Hempstead Planning Board and Hempstead for Hofstra Scholarship Committee.

Additionally, Pettus is an active member of the National Council of Negro Women and the Negro Business and Professional Women Inc., women's organizations with community based chapters whose mission is, health, education, economic empowerment, career development, mentoring, youth activities, leadership and advocacy for women of African descent.

Pettus is also deeply committed to her church in Roosevelt, where she serves as worship Minister and director of the women's ministry. She and her husband Perry, a local businessman and Hempstead Village Trustee, are proud parents

Of her position as executive director of UNCCRC, Pettus said she is "thrilled by the opportunity to use her skills to help carry UNCCRC's mission forward for the benefit of all of Westbury/New Cassel residents and businesses."