Long-time manager of Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center retires
Photo I Courtesy of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
(From left): Diane Burnette and Sabbra Reyes
After a nearly 30-year career with the Johnny Appleseed Visitors' Center in Lancaster, Diane Burnette has retired from position as manager of the Fitchburg-based North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s center, effective Monday.
"Diane's contributions to our organization and the communities of North Central Massachusetts cannot be overstated," Roy Nascimento, president and CEO of the chamber said in a Monday press release. "She has not only managed the visitor center with exceptional skill but also played a crucial role in promoting our region and supporting local businesses. Her dedication has helped countless visitors discover the beauty and charm of North Central Massachusetts."
Burnette will be succeeded by Sabbra Reyes, an employee of the visitors center for nearly nearly 15 years.
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The Johnny Appleseed center is the region’s touchpoint for the tourism industry, which generated $1.3 billion in economic impact throughout Worcester County in 2023.
To facilitate the change in leadership, Burnette will continue to work closely with Reyes as she assumes her new role.
“I am honored to follow in Diane’s footsteps and continue the tradition of excellence she has established,” Reyes said in the release. “The Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center plays a vital role in showcasing our region, and I look forward to working with our team to enhance the visitor experience while maintaining the high standards Diane has set."
In recognition of Burnette’s years of service, the chamber will host a special Business After Hours from 5-7 p.m. Jan. 15 series at the Brew Barn at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston. Ticket proceeds from the event will benefit the Johnny Appleseed center.
With 700 members, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is the second largest chamber of commerce in the region when ranked by total membership by WBJ’s Research Department. Founded in 1984, the chamber has 16 full-time equivalent employees, the most out of Central Massachusetts’ largest 18 chambers.
Mica Kanner-Mascolo is a staff writer at Worcester Business Journal, who primarily covers the healthcare and diversity, equity, and inclusion industries.
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