The Board | Lake Lure Social

Our Story

The Lake Lure Social Club was formed to bring people together through shared experiences, new friendships, and a spirit of adventure. Our goal is to create welcoming opportunities for members to connect, explore new places and enjoy the beauty and activities our region has to offer. By gathering for social events, outings and shared interests we hope to continue to build a vibrant community where everyone feels included and inspired to discover something new.

Meet The Board

Sandy Hamel

President- Sandy is originally from Massachusetts, where she spent most of her career in sales and marketing in the technology industry. After retiring from Microsoft, she and her husband Jeff started an all-inclusive sailing charter business in the Caribbean, where they spent 10 wonderful years. They came back to land 5 years ago and built their home in Lake Lure with their LabraDoodle Kimba, enjoying the hiking, mountain air, and all the great people!

Judithe Kennedy

Treasurer- Judithe was born and raised in NC. She retired from a career in IT and moved to Lake Lure in August of 2023 with her husband, David. She is an avid motorcycle rider and has been riding since she was 4 years old. Since moving to Lake Lure, she now also enjoys hiking, backpacking, pickleball, mahjong, and bunco.

Val Kager

Secretary - After many years of living in Florida and visiting WNC, Joe and I are so happy to call Lake Lure home! The LLSC has been a huge part of meeting new friends with shared interests. When I’m not busy sending you emails about the next fun event, you’ll find me hiking, birdwatching, traveling, enjoying food and wine, gardening, and hanging out with our children and grandchildren.

Louisa Koken

Vice President- I'm a Rutherfordton native with a degree in Journalism from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. After a fulfilling career in the newspaper industry in SC, I retired in 2012. I cherish my time with my husband, Bob, and our two wonderful daughters Kate and Anna. Anna is getting married at Rumbling Bald in the fall of 26. Our family has owned property on the lake since the late '40s. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering, hiking, traveling, and reading.

Diane Conroy

Vice President- Diane grew up in MD and VA but spent the last 25 ish years living out west in WA and Wyoming. Family is here so she is too. Among a variety of work experiences, Diane spent 20 years in HealthCare technology. She currently loves being involved in the community, spending time with family and friends and is a real "foody".