Arts Services Initiative of Western New York (ASI) has announced the appointment of Jennifer Swan as the organization's permanent executive director.
"I am extremely excited to take on this role at ASI, as it has been my life's work to be in this position and offer a clear vision of collaboration, partnership and education for the Western New York arts sector and artists working here," Swan said. "The past six years we have seen ASI blossom from a start-up resource council, and I plan to use my expertise and leadership to bring it into its next phase of growth and development. I've had the pleasure to work in different artistic management disciplines such as theater, classical music and popular music; and leading ASI allows me to serve all areas of the arts in the community and share my knowledge of management and entrepreneurism, as well."
Swan served as ASI's associate director from 2011-17 and then as interim executive director for this past year. In July, Buffalo Spree Magazine named her Arts Administrator of the Year.
ASI said, "Jen has been in the field of nonprofit arts management for over 10 years and has been supportive of thriving arts and culturals through her community-minded focus and involvement in grassroots production."
Board President Randall Kramer said, "After a significant search process, we are excited to remove the interim title from ASI Executive Director Jennifer Swan. Jen has widespread support from many culturals and funders in our community, and we are excited to begin this next era of Arts Services Initiative."
Swan has a Masters Degree in arts management from the University at Buffalo. She continues to leverage university and community partnerships at ASI, and is a member of Leadership Niagara's Class of 2016.
Swan will join the New York State Council on the Arts and the New York Council of Nonprofits this fall at their Executive Director Leadership Conference to continue advancing ASI's efforts and impact beyond the Western New York region.
ASI is "a nonprofit organization that promotes the cultural sector's vital role in economic development and the community through capacity building, collaboration and advocacy. ... ASI provides the tools and resources necessary to artists and those working in the arts and cultural field to have successful, entrepreneurial creative nonprofits and businesses in Western New York."
