Visionary, powerful, transformative, generous—these were just a few of the adjectives used to describe retiring CEO Dr. Charlotte Shelton on a “word cloud” given to her by employees during a reception at Unity Village on July 5.

On hand to wish her well in her retirement were Shelton’s friends, family, Unity employees and community members.

Shelton became president and CEO of Unity World Headquarters in 2006. Under her leadership, the historic campus underwent some $20 million in improvements. These include the opening of the Unity Village Hotel and Conference Center in 2006, the restoration of the central courtyard in 2010, the launch of Awaken Whole Life Center in the restored Unity Tower in 2013, and improvements to the newly renamed Carl L. Chinnery Nature Trail in 2016.

In her decade of service Shelton created a visible legacy that will benefit Unity Village and the Lee’s Summit community for years to come. Or as she remarked, “Unity has become the tapestry of my life. I’ve been changed by all of you during my time here, and I hope you’ve been changed a bit by me.”

Shelton’s plans include teaching at Rockhurst University and traveling. A new CEO has yet to be named.