Gwaltney to lead Pat Conroy Literary Center

Robert Gwaltney

The Pat Conroy Literary Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert Gwaltney as its new Executive Director. A nonprofit executive and critically acclaimed author, Gwaltney brings more than 25 years of mission-driven leadership and community service, along with a deep personal connection to the work and legacy of Pat Conroy. 

A lifelong resident of the American South and a graduate of Florida State University, Gwaltney most recently served in executive leadership with Easterseals North Georgia, where he oversaw one of Georgia’s largest nonprofit early childhood education and family service programs. During his nonprofit career, he has developed strategic initiatives, strengthened organizational partnerships, and championed programs designed to improve the lives of children, families, and communities. 

His leadership has been characterized by a commitment to mission, collaboration, innovation, and service—qualities he now brings to the Literary Center as it looks toward its next chapter. 

Gwaltney’s professional work is complemented by his accomplishments as an author. He has often cited Pat Conroy as one of the writers who inspired his own literary journey. Conroy’s fearless storytelling, profound sense of place, and belief in the transformative power of literature helped shape Gwaltney’s understanding of what literary fiction can accomplish. 

That connection makes his new role at the Literary Center both professionally significant and personally meaningful. “Pat Conroy understood that stories can change the way we see ourselves, our communities, and one another,” Gwaltney said. “I am honored to join an organization that carries that belief forward, and I look forward to working with the staff, board, authors, educators, supporters, and community partners who make the Center such a special place.” 

As Executive Director, Gwaltney will build upon the Center’s established legacy while focusing on expanding educational programming, strengthening community partnerships, growing philanthropic support, and broadening the Center’s reach throughout the Lowcountry and beyond. 

“I want the Literary Center to continue to be a place where readers and writers feel welcomed, where young people discover the power of their own voices, and where Pat’s enduring belief in empathy, courage, and the power of story remains at the heart of everything we do,” Gwaltney said. 

“Robert brings an impressive combination of nonprofit leadership experience, a deep commitment to community, and a real passion for the power of literature. We’re thrilled to welcome him to the Pat Conroy Literary Center. We look forward to seeing him build on the Center’s strong foundation and help take our work to the next level,” Sean Scapellato, Board Chair of the Pat Conroy Literary Center added.

Gwaltney will join the Center on September 1, 2026.