There’s a rhythm to the water—an ancient song whispered by the wind and echoed in the sails. It speaks of resilience, of journeys both charted and unforeseen, of strength revealed not in calmness but in the way we weather the storm. True mastery isn’t in avoiding the waves, but in knowing how to ride them—steady, sure, and full of grace.
Tucked along the sun-dappled shores of Lake Norman, Safe Harbor Peninsula Yacht Club in Cornelius is a place where hospitality meets heart, and every lakeside moment is carefully curated by a talented trio of women who keep things running smoothly. And when they encounter the storms of life, they are able to courageously sail on toward smoother waters.
At the helm are General Manager Kathee Dishner, Assistant General Manager Nikole Maust, and Commodore Pamela Black. Together they bring a wealth of experience, warmth, and leadership that shapes the club’s atmosphere—from first impressions to unforgettable events. While their roles differ, their mission is unified: to create a welcoming, well-run haven where members feel valued and every detail reflects a sense of care and community.
As general manager, Kathee is both captain and crew—steering strategically while staying grounded in the day-to-day rhythm of the club. With decades of experience, she began her career in catering on the beach in Monterey, California. “In 1986,” she explains, “I moved to Pinehurst and joined Pine Needles Lodge & Golf Club where I was grateful to be trained under Peggy Kirk Bell, one of the five most influential women in golf. I’ve worked in the golf management industry most of my career.”
Married to her college sweetheart, Kathee is the proud mother of two daughters—Brandee (married to Dustin) and Brittney (married to Luis)—and doting grandmother to five energetic grandkids: Keegan, Karis, Connor, Silas, and Evan.
Kathee’s presence is calm and confident, the kind of leadership that steadies a team and puts members instantly at ease. Whether she’s welcoming a new family, solving a behind-the-scenes issue, or pausing to admire a sunset, she leads with quiet strength and genuine care.
“There’s something magical about a marina,” she reflects. “It’s not just the boats—it’s the people. I love building relationships and creating a culture where everyone feels like they belong.”
Similar, but bringing her own set of skills to the club, Nikole has a deep and professional understanding of the business side of things. In fact, you could say it’s in her DNA. “Growing up,” she recalls, “my family owned a dance studio, so being immersed in the world of business came naturally to me.”
While studying at James Madison University, she discovered a passion for hospitality that only deepened when she began working full-time at CrossKeys Vineyards during her final semester. Starting as a hostess and eventually moving into event and catering management, Nikole found her calling. “I loved working closely with clients to bring their special occasions to life,” she says. “It was so fulfilling to make a meaningful impact on their lives.”
Originally from Warrenton, Virginia, Nikole took a leap of faith in March 2020 and relocated to Charlotte with her husband, Tyler—just as the world was shutting down. “I feared my career in hospitality might be coming to an end,” she admits. But fate had other plans. She applied for what she thought was an operations role at Peninsula Yacht Club, only to discover it was in facilities maintenance. Luckily, a role opened in Food & Beverage, and she stepped in with enthusiasm. “It’s been incredibly rewarding to grow here, build an amazing team, and create joyful, lasting experiences for our members.”
Commodore Pamela brings a unique blend of warmth, leadership, and tireless dedication to her role. “My husband Steve and I have been members for a little over eight years—we actually joined before we even moved to the neighborhood. We met so many members right away that we started taking notes on Steve’s phone to remember little facts about each person.”
Within months, Pamela was asked to serve on the Fleet Committee, and she’s since worn many hats, working closely with management to enhance the member experience. “Serving on the Fleet Committee is a lot of work,” she says, “but we’re a big family and have a great time.”
A Greensboro native, Pamela is a proud mom and grandmother. Her daughter Ashley lives in Oregon with husband Kyle and their two children, Jack (6) and Rosalie (4). Her son Justin lives in Florida with his girlfriend, Josephine.
With a knack for conversation and a natural warmth, Pamela connects with members effortlessly—part diplomat, part social captain. When not at the club, she loves walking (a lot!), boating, and travel. “My brother passed away with pancreatic cancer at 39 years old,” she shares. “It changed my life. At that moment, I made the decision to find a way to enjoy every single day. Don’t live your life in fear … go out and do something extraordinary – whatever that means to you. Find a little (or more) joy in every day.”
Kathee, Nikole, and Pamela come together as friends, collaborators, confidantes, and champions of the club’s culture. They respect one another, laugh often, and step in wherever needed. Their leadership is not loud, but it’s unmistakable—present in every polished table setting, every smiling staff interaction, and every lingering conversation on the dock.
“There’s no ego here,” says Nikole. “We trust one another. And we genuinely care about this place and each other.”
That care shows in the little things—and those little things add up. “For many members,” Pamela says, “Safe Harbor Peninsula feels like a second home. And that sense of belonging is no accident. It’s the result of thoughtful, present, and deeply capable leadership.”
Kathee concurs: “There’s no typical day, but every day we’re building something meaningful and lasting … including lifelong friendships and connections—which is priceless!”
