Q&A: Meet Simpsonville's new city administrator

This week Simpsonville announced Dianna Gracely as its new city administrator.

Gracely is the city administrator in Travelers Rest and has more than 20 years of experience working in local government. Before she officially starts her new job March 1, she took time to answer a few questions about her career and vision for Simpsonville. 

Why did you decide to come work for Simpsonville? Simpsonville is a growing and thriving community. That growth can present challenges, and I want to help Council prioritize goals and work toward making Simpsonville realize its full potential.

How has your past life/career experience made you confident to take on this job? My education is in public administration. I’ve also spent my entire career in local government management, and understand the unique challenges that accompany public service. I also enjoy planning and implementing community projects.

Many people may not realize that it’s common to see high turnover rates for city administrators/managers, yet you were in Travelers Rest for 13 years. What do you attribute that long tenure to? I was fortunate to work alongside a progressive City Council that had a clear vision for the betterment of the city. I believe that Simpsonville has elected officials in place who understand the importance of strategic planning, and they have a vision for the future. I am optimistic that my tenure here will be successful as a result. 

What are some of the highlights of your career so far? Being an integral part of the resurgence of Travelers Rest has been a highlight. Creating an environment in which new businesses have invested and thrived has brought me a tremendous sense of satisfaction. 

You mentioned that small towns typically have their own problems. What are a few problems Simpsonville has and how can you help solve them? I prefer to say that Simpsonville has opportunities, not problems. Of course, Council and I will approach issues with the mindset of making the most of those opportunities. Simpsonville is a wonderful community with a very bright future.

What are a few long-term goals you have for Simpsonville, and how will you get there? I haven’t had a chance to meet with Council as a whole to prioritize goals. That will happen very soon so that we can establish goals and I can get right to work. For my part now, I think expanding the Swamp Rabbit Trail through Simpsonville, attracting local investment to Main Street, and building an arts presence in the community are all important.

Who has been an important mentor in your life? I have been fortunate to have worked with some amazing people throughout my career. I’ve learned a great deal from them. Mayor Roy Reynolds (former Travelers Rest mayor who died in 2017) was the most influential person in my career. He was a calm and selfless leader, and I hope that I possess some of those traits as well.

Outside of work, what are some of your interests and hobbies? I love to hike, canoe, read, and cook. I have a husky and a cocker spaniel, both rescue dogs, and really enjoy running with them. 

Do you belong to any community groups or organizations? I am a member of the Travelers Rest Lions Club, and have served on the board of governors for the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, advisory board for the George I. Theisen YMCA, board of directors for the SC Community Development Association, and numerous other organizations throughout Greenville County.

Related: Simpsonville names Dianna Gracely city administrator