Stonington — Jim Truscio, who has been the executive director of the Stonington Community Center for 5½ years, has resigned for personal reasons, according to Kathryn Burchenal, president of the center's Board of Directors.

Truscio's departure comes after he had taken a short leave of absence this spring. Noreen Kepple, who has run the center's preschool program for three decades, is serving as the interim director.

Burchenal said the center's search committee hopes to have a new director within the next three to four months.

"The COMO will be looking for a dynamic new leader who will come with ideas, understanding of our community, and the capacity to be a visionary and a caretaker of this community treasure," Burchenal said in a release. "Candidates for The COMO Executive Director position will be selected by their ability to nurture our vast array of successful programs and think strategically for the future."

Burchenal said that people in the COMO organization and the community enjoyed their interactions with Truscio.

She said he presided over a thriving preschool, on- and off-site before- and after-school programs, a karate studio, athletic programs, theatrical events, an art studio, the Thrift Shop, a vibrant Junior Leader program, summer camps, various program offerings, and a venue in which many community support groups meet.

Candidates can submit resume and cover letter to the Stonington COMO, Attn: Executive Director Search Committee, 28 Cutler St., Stonington, CT 06378. A background in development is a must.

j.wojtas@theday.com