Executive Director
Chicago, Illinois
Spearheaded Project Onward’s transition from a small program division to a fully independent organization that provides meaningful, high quality arts programming to talented adults with disabilities. Responsible for all aspects of operating a nonprofit community-based art studio and gallery.• Successfully incorporated Project Onward as an independent nonprofit organization; obtained 501(c)(3) determination from the IRS; and recruited an active board of directors.• Coordinated every aspect of the organization’s move to a larger facility at the Bridgeport Art Center: designed new studio, office, and gallery space; negotiated lease and construction with building management; hired and supervised highly effective team of employees, interns, and volunteers for programming and administration.• Expanded Project Onward’s artist roster to 60 participants.• Worked one-on-one with disabled adult artists to facilitate their studio art practice, develop individualized business plans, and coordinate service provision.• Coordinated Project Onward’s ambitious exhibitions program, including curatorial design, gallery installation, and logistics. Since 2004, organized hundreds of exhibitions to showcase and sell the work of artists with disabilities, including collaborations with local and national partners.• Managed fundraising and external partnerships, including grants; individual, foundation, and corporate contributions; and developing social enterprise projects for earned income.• Coordinated Project Onward’s marketing efforts, including writing, design, social media, and speaking to media and community organizations on Project Onward’s behalf.• Created signature “Portrait Slam” events to facilitate professional and social interactions between Project Onward artists and the general public.• Led major public art projects by Project Onward artists, in partnership with Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and the Trust for Public Land/The 606.
