Arts Services Inc. (ASI) is delighted to announce the commencement of the 2024 MEDAL (Molding Executives and Directors into Arts Leaders) Program, a groundbreaking endeavor dedicated to developing the next generation of arts leaders in Western New York. This distinctive program is strategically designed to provide comprehensive training and mentorship to a select group of regional leaders, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in the management of nonprofit arts and culture organizations.
A Commitment to Excellence
MEDAL is not just a program; it’s a commitment to excellence. Over the next six months, the ten chosen regional leaders will embark on a transformative journey. With diverse backgrounds and roles across various nonprofit organizations, these leaders will participate in monthly workshops and presentations, gaining invaluable resources, networking opportunities, and mentorship tailored to the nuances of managing nonprofit arts or cultural organizations.
The 2024 MEDALists: A Diverse Cohort
The year’s MEDALists represent the rich diversity and talent of WNY’s arts sector, while, it’s their shared passion and dedication that make this cohort exceptional:
- Gerard Briggs President, Full Circle Family Services Inc.
- Hy Carrel Director of Operations, Community Canvases
- Tami Fuller Executive Director/Coordinator, Roycrofters at Large Association, Inc.
- Matthew Marco Artistic Director, Buffalo Opera Unlimited
- Riley Nahlik Operations and Marketing Manager, Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
- Myra Ofield Founder, YITC Foundation Inc.
- Emily Reynolds Executive Director, The Buffalo Institute for Contemporary Art
- Michael Russo Executive Director, Starring Buffalo
- Ricardo Saeb Valenzuela Deputy Director, Buffalo String Works
- Jun Wang-Tiedemann Chair, APAPA Buffalo-Niagara Chapter
The MEDAL Experience
MEDAL distinguishes itself from other leadership programs in WNY by being the only one specifically crafted to cater to the needs of newly appointed or promoted arts nonprofit leaders. The program promises about 35 hours of immersive, hands-on learning spread across sessions held every third Thursday from April to September 2024.
Participants, affectionately known as MEDALists, will benefit from:
- Expert-Led Workshops: Each session is designed through a nonprofit arts lens, ensuring relevance to arts organizations of all sizes.
- Open and Collaborative Learning: All presenters are handpicked by ASI for their openness, communicative skills, and collaborative spirit.
- Building a Support Network: MEDALists will forge lasting bonds, creating a robust support network within the WNY arts industry.
- Ongoing Support: The journey doesn’t end after six months; ASI and fellow MEDALists
A Toast to the MEDALists
We extend our wholehearted congratulations to the ten new participants. Your journey ahead promises to be as enriching as it is inspiring. As you mold into the arts leaders of tomorrow, know that your passion and dedication are the keystones of a vibrant cultural landscape.
Stay tuned for more updates as these leaders make their mark and continue to foster the growth of the arts in WNY.
