(CENTREVILLE) - Christine Yunker has issued a media release regarding her status as the St. Joseph County Grange Fair Manager.
In the release, Yunker says she has informed the St. Joseph County Grange Fair Board that she will not be renewing her contract as Fair Manager, which expires on May 12. Yunker says this decision follows careful evaluation of the organizational direction and leadership environment and reflects her commitment to maintaining professional standards, healthy workplace practices, and clear operational expectations in her work.
Yunker says when she accepted this role, her focus was to bring structure, accountability, and operational consistency to the fairgrounds. Throughout her tenure, she says she implemented standard operating procedures, established internal processes, strengthened communication channels, and worked closely with staff to build a more stable and reliable foundation for both the annual fair and year-round events.
Yunker says while she is proud of the progress that's been achieved, it has also become clear that ongoing organizational and leadership challenges have limited the ability to advance long-term goals in a way that aligns with the expectations and systems necessary for sustained success.
Despite these constraints, Yunker says she remained fully committed to guiding the fair through significant and difficult moments, including the aftermath of the 2024 barn fire. During these times, strong, steady leadership was essential, and she says she is proud to have provided it.
Yunker says as her contract concludes, she will continue to fulfill all responsibilities and support a smooth transition to ensure preparations for the upcoming fair and scheduled events remain on track and uninterrupted.
Fair Board President Keith Bower spoke with Swick Broadcasting and says that a new Fair Manager has been hired. An announcement will be made in the near future.