Q. What inspired you to get involved in the arts and non-profits?
A. I had stopped practicing law to stay home and take care of my two daughters. My tennis partner’s husband told me he had a vision of FREE Shakespeare in the park in New Haven, Connecticut. I thought it was a swell idea, but couldn’t understand why he was pitching it to me. As a former lawyer, he was sure I would be able to get the company incorporated and obtain a 501(c)3. Before long, I was the founding Executive Director of the Elm Shakespeare Company which continues to produce outdoor productions, as well as having a stellar education program. I then held jobs at the prestigious Long Wharf Theatre and The Yale Repertory Theatre.
Q. What was the biggest turning point in your career?
A. I was hired by Joanne Woodward when she was the Artistic Director at the Westport Country Playhouse. The playhouse was embarking on a major capital campaign as it prepared for its 75th anniversary. Joanne pushed me out of my comfort zone and I developed the confidence to better engage with people and speak publicly when needed.
Q. How did your background or personal experience influence you?
A. I had always loved the performing arts. As a child I studied dance, music and spent my summers at Berkshire Showcase and later Stagedoor Manor. Summers were spent in stock theaters. After college, I believed I needed to find a grown up occupation and off to Law School I went. What else are you going to do with a degree in Philosophy from a liberal arts college? While I only practiced law for a short time, legal training always helped no matter what or where life led me.
Q. How do you stay motivated during tough times?
A. People keep me motivated. In my present position, our staff and our Board are just incredible. We have been through hurricanes and the pandemic together. They are so talented and they constantly surprise me with all that they can achieve. On my worst days just talking with my team lifts my spirits and keeps me going. I also try to celebrate the little victories and accomplishments. Finding time to enjoy the good times can really help when you hit some bumps in the road.
Q. What makes your non-profit unique and necessary for the community?
A. Marco Island Center for the Arts and the Arts Center Theatre are the ONLY art center and community theater on Marco Island. Arts and culture function as indispensable parts of humans’ lives. The Arts are not just nice – The Arts are necessary. Studies show the impact and value of arts and culture, from individual quality of life to overall community health. The Art Center addresses the needs of its numerous stakeholders in different ways through its various programs and offerings. The Art Center’s unique capacity is to serve as people’s ART HOME on Marco. The Art Center and the Arts Center Theatre promote economic growth for both individuals and the greater economy of the island and beyond.
Q. What advice would you give to aspiring business leaders in the nonprofit space?
A. The nonprofit world is very competitive as funding gets tighter. We often don’t collaborate or work together because we are all worrying that someone will go after our donors or we will find ourselves at some disadvantage. Business leaders, and especially women leaders, need to learn to develop trust and find ways to create mutually beneficial opportunities. Rising tides lift all boats!