A Tarboro native is the new town senior citizens coordinator.

Morgan Whitehurst takes over today as Alberta Pettaway retires after more than 34 years of service, including 30 years full time.

“We think she will do a very good job,” said Parks and Recreation Director Jarvis Pettaway who oversees the E.L. Roberson Center at 305 W. Baker St. “She has plenty of get up and go, plenty of energy. We are happy to have her.”

Whitehurst, the 25-year-old daughter of George and Kay Whitehurst, is a 2002 graduate of Tarboro High School and 2007 graduate of East Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in health fitness.

She interned in a cardio-pulmonary rehab unit in Chesapeake, Va., and worked with Easter Seals in Greenville in job training and developmental therapy before accepting the job in Tarboro.

“I have worked with older people before and really enjoyed it,” she said. “I know I have a lot to learn, but I intend to be here awhile.

“This is an opportunity to use my program planning and be creative. I like the older population. They have a lot of kick to them.”

Pettaway plans to continue at the senior center on a part-time basis.

“She’s a great person to go to for advice,” Whitehurst said.

When she is not working, Whitehurst enjoys working out. Running is her stress reliever.

“I am looking for a place to live in Tarboro,” she said.

Thirty-seven people applied for the job that will pay Whitehurst $27,357 per year.