On Friday, May 4, the membership of the Vermont Arts Council elected eight trustees to first or second terms during the Council’s annual meeting. The membership also approved changes to the Council’s bylaws. Sabrina Brown (Hartland), Greg Cutler (Manchester), and Major Jackson (South Burlington) were elected to first terms. Jo Sabel Courtney (Stowe), Reeve Lindbergh (Barnet), Nicole Nelson (Burlington), Gail Nunziata (Brattleboro), and Edmond Strainchamps (Corinth) were elected to second terms.
"Art in all its forms creates economic development, helps people find common ground, and brings awareness and joy to all who participate,” said Sabrina Brown. “It is extremely helpful to have the kind of structure the Vermont Arts Council provides, which can act as both a cocoon/incubator and lasso/boundary for all that creative energy."
Following the meeting, the board of trustees elected new officers for FY2019. Gail Nunziata was elected chair, replacing Bob Stannard, who served as chair for two terms. Robin Perlah (Burlington) was elected vice chair, Ed Clark (Guildhall) secretary, and Greg Sargent (St. Albans) treasurer.
“Each of these new trustees brings a wealth of skills and experience, as well as a passion for the arts, to their work on the board,” said Vermont Arts Council Executive Director Karen Mittelman. “I look forward to working with incoming Chair Gail Nunziata, and join the entire board in thanking Bob Stannard for his leadership of the Council for the past two years.”
The Vermont Arts Council envisions a state where everyone has access to the arts and creativity in their life, education, and community. Through its programs and services, the Council strives to increase public awareness of the positive role artists and arts organizations play in communities and to maximize opportunities for everyone to experience the arts. Since 1965, the Council has been the state's primary provider of funding, advocacy, and information for the arts in Vermont. www.vermontartscouncil.org.
Photo by Erin Patrice O’Brien