Meet New Clan MacFarlane Executive Director Diana MacFarlane

We are thrilled to officially announce Diana MacFarlane as the new Executive Director of the International Clan MacFarlane Society! Diana’s journey with us began as the Director of Media and Member Services, where her exceptional contributions were instrumental in our success.

After the resounding triumph of the 2022 Clan MacFarlane World Gathering in Scotland, we recognized Diana’s exceptional leadership skills and her unwavering dedication to our Clan. It is with great pride that we promote her to the esteemed position of Executive Director.

Diana’s professional background as a Web Designer and Digital Marketer has allowed her to shape our Clan’s branding and online presence. Her expertise in leveraging digital platforms has played a vital role in expanding our reach and fostering meaningful connections among members worldwide.

As Executive Director, Diana will lead us into an exciting future, steering our Society towards new horizons and endeavors. Her strategic vision, passion for our heritage, and commitment to fostering a sense of unity within our Clan will undoubtedly propel us to even greater achievements.

Please join us in congratulating Diana on her well-deserved promotion. Together, let us embark on this new chapter under her guidance, as we continue to celebrate and strengthen our shared bond as members of the International Clan MacFarlane Society.

Meet Diana | In Her Own Words

We asked Diana to tell you all a bit about herself, her connection to Clan MacFarlane and her thoughts on representing the Society. Here’s what she had to say:

Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself? What part of the world are you from? What do you do for work? What are your passions?

Originally from rural Louisiana, USA,  I now live in a suburb of Los Angeles settled by Scottish immigrants. I’ve worked in both entertainment and information technology for the past 20 years. These days, my business focuses on web technologies, marketing and video production. I love to travel but I also love coming home. My passions range from geek culture to photography to naval/pirate history. Yaarr!

Q: Can you tell us a bit about your ancestors/personal family history?

My ancestors were Scottish, Irish, Native American and German. One of them was part of the original group of pilgrim settlers who journeyed to America on the Mayflower.  From childhood, I’ve always felt an unexplained connection to my Celtic ancestors.

Q: How did you discover or learn about your MacFarlane heritage?

Well, my Scottish ancestors were Stewarts, but I actually married into the MacFarlane clan. Since the day I traded in my Stewart tartan for MacFarlane, I have done very little looking back.

Growing up in a region of the United States where, at the time, there was no strong sense of national heritage, I discovered my “Scottishness” later in life after attending my first Highland Games. It was from there that I began to spend time in my regional Scottish community, learning everything I could about the story of Scotland.  Then, I visited for the first time.

I knew I would love it, but I had no idea that both the region and its people would connect with my soul so completely.  I was home.

The rest is history!

Q: What area of Clan MacFarlane history or heritage interests you the most?

Of course what captures my imagination the most is  the legend and lore that is specific to the MacFarlane’s and the region of Arrochar – MacFarlanes as expert cattle rustlers, the legend of MacFarlane’s Lantern, the origin and drama of our epic conflict with our Colquhoun neigbours to the South, etc.

Yet, what I think I am most interested in is the story of the clan.  How MacFarlane events of the past went on to so greatly affect the clan in the future.  How did Clan MacFarlane affect history and what is their place in the story of not only Scotland but the world?

Q: As Executive Director, what are you looking forward to the most? What would you most like to accomplish in your new position?

As the Executive Director of Clan MacFarlane, I am honored to serve in this role and have several goals and aspirations for the clan. Here are a few things I am looking forward to the most and what I would like to accomplish:

Preserving and Promoting Clan MacFarlane’s Heritage: I aim to uphold and safeguard the rich history, traditions, and heritage of Clan MacFarlane. This includes researching and documenting our genealogy, preserving historical artifacts, and promoting awareness of our clan’s unique culture.

Strengthening Clan MacFarlane’s Community: I believe in fostering a strong sense of community among clan members. Through various initiatives, events, and communication channels, I intend to bring together MacFarlanes from around the world, creating opportunities for networking, collaboration, and camaraderie.

Supporting Clan MacFarlane’s Charitable Endeavors: Giving back to society is important, and I would like to facilitate and encourage Clan MacFarlane’s involvement in philanthropic activities. By identifying meaningful causes and organizing fundraising efforts, we can make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Promoting Scottish Heritage and Culture: Clan MacFarlane is deeply rooted in Scottish history, and I am passionate about promoting Scottish heritage and culture not only within our clan but also to a wider audience. Through educational programs, cultural events, and collaborations with other Scottish organizations, we can share our traditions and contribute to the preservation of Scottish heritage.

Growing Clan MacFarlane’s Membership: Expanding our clan’s membership base is crucial for its vitality and long-term sustainability. I will work towards attracting new members, especially younger generations, by creating engaging content, utilizing social media platforms, and organizing gatherings that cater to different age groups and interests.

Overall, my primary goal is to ensure Clan MacFarlane thrives and continues to flourish, while fostering a sense of pride, unity, and connection among its members.

Diana will be officially installed as Executive Director at our upcoming 50th Annual World Gathering & General Meeting at the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in Linville, North Carolina, USA in July.