WRAP Executive Director Resigns Amid Controversy
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JACKSON, Tenn. – Amid controversy, the executive director of WRAP, Wo/Men’s Resource and Rape Assistance Program, resigned, Monday. According to an emailed release, the Board of Directors accepted Margaret Cole’s resignation, effective immediately. She had served as Executive Director of the organization since July of 1995. The release complimented Cole for her role in building WRAP and for her service. It quotes Cole as saying, “I look forward to the next stage in my life. I love this agency, and I love this work. WRAP will always have a special place in my heart. After 17 years, it’s time for someone else to take the reins.” Earlier this month, 7 Eyewitness News reported an audit in May found $8,581.75 in state grant money had been misused. The report also found Cole had asked an employee to lie to auditors about the whereabouts of a computer. Cole has been on leave from WRAP since the first week of September. The board is scheduled to meet Tuesday and appoint a search committee. In the mean time, Program Director Calista Joyce will serve as Interim Executive Director. WRAP provides help to victims of domestic violence and rape in 14 West Tennessee counties. According to the release, WRAP will repay the state from a small surplus from last year’s budget, which will not affect any of the organizations current programs and services. Calls to Cole Monday evening were not returned.
