VTS magazine

It has been a genuine joy and privilege to work alongside Ms. Linda Dienno at Virginia Theological Seminary. Her warmth, professionalism, and deep commitment to the mission of VTS made her not only a remarkable colleague but also a deeply valued member of our community. Linda brought vision and dedication to every conversation, every project, and every interaction. Over 12 transformative years, she made an indelible mark on the Seminary and on all of us who had the pleasure to work with her. 

Linda retired at the end of December 2024 after an extraordinary tenure at VTS, leaving behind a legacy of institutional advancement and community building that will be felt for decades to come. One of her most visible accomplishments was her pivotal role in raising $63 million for VTS’ Bicentennial Campaign – the most successful capital campaign in the Seminary’s history. Under her strategic guidance and leadership, the campaign not only met but exceeded expectations, ensuring a strong foundation for the Seminary’s third century of service.

Equally memorable was the four-day Historic Bicentenary, a series of impeccably orchestrated events that reflected the scope and spirit of VTS. Linda’s steady hand and imaginative vision shaped these celebrations, which drew together alumni, donors, faculty, staff, and friends from around the world. 

During her tenure, Linda helped secure a number of transformative gifts that will shape the Seminary’s future: the establishment of the Costan Lectures, the Seminary’s first-ever Doctor of Ministry scholarship, the Berryman Family Chair for Children’s Spirituality and Nurture, and the endowment that supports the Saint Nicholas Center for Faith and Justice. The delightful and thought-provoking St. Nicholas exhibition in the Welcome Center stands as a creative legacy of Linda’s influence and a symbol of her ability to connect donors’ passions with institutional mission. 

As Vice President for Institutional Advancement, Linda led her team with excellence and purpose. She was a key voice on the Seminary’s leadership team, always bringing clarity, creativity, and a strong sense of mission to the table. Beyond her professional achievements, she modeled the values of lifelong learning and personal growth. While serving in her demanding role, Linda earned a Master of Science in Nonprofit Leadership with a concentration in philanthropy and resource development from Denver University, becoming the first VTS Vice President to hold a graduate degree in this area. Her commitment to education was not just personal – it was contagious. Her leadership in launching the highly successful Philanthropy Symposium, which garnered national attention, is a testament to her desire to equip others for excellence in ministry and nonprofit leadership. 

At the heart of all Linda did was a deep and abiding belief in the mission of VTS. A devout Episcopalian, she understood firsthand the importance of VTS in shaping strong, faithful congregational leadership. She was a true advocate for the entire Seminary, from Lifelong Learning to the Center for Anglican Communion Studies to the African American Episcopal Historical Collection, and of course, the St. Nicholas Center. She gave her all because she believed deeply in the transformative work of theological education. 

As we celebrate Linda’s incredible contributions, we must also offer heartfelt thanks to her husband, Mr. Jeff Dienno, whose own creativity also left its mark on the campus. Jeff is the mastermind and craftsman behind the famous LEGO model of Aspinwall Hall, a stunning piece made of 90,000 LEGO bricks. The model is not only a feat of architectural imagination but also a beloved fixture at the Seminary that continues to delight. 

We will miss Linda profoundly. Her legacy of faith-filled leadership, strategic vision, and warm collegiality will continue to shape our shared life at VTS. With gratitude in our hearts, we wish her every joy and blessing in the next chapter.