Who's the new leader at ArtsinStark? Nonprofit names CEO
CANTON ? Maureen Ater will be the new leader of the nonprofit agency that advocates and provides funding for the Stark County arts community.
The ArtsinStark board of directors approved the hiring of Ater at a meeting late Wednesday afternoon.
"We are thrilled to welcome Maureen as our new CEO," board Chairman Christopher Goff said in a prepared statement. "Her lifelong passion for the arts, coupled with her leadership experience, aligns perfectly with the goals and values of ArtsinStark.
"We believe that under Maureen's guidance, ArtsinStark will continue to thrive and make significant contributions to our vibrant arts community."
Changes in the local arts community ArtsinStark CEO David Whitehill resigns: 'Time for me to embrace new challenges'
Changes in leadership at ArtsinStark
Ater succeeds David Whitehill, who resigned as president and CEO of ArtsinStark in October. Whitehill had succeeded Robb Hankins, who announced his departure as ArtsinStark CEO in September 2020.
Whitehill had spent nearly three years helming the agency.
"I believe it's crucial for any leader to continuously evolve and grow in their career," Whitehill had told The Repository regarding his resignation. "Stepping down at this juncture enables a seamless transition to new leadership, allowing the organization to infuse fresh perspectives and ideas."
Whitehill had led grant program changes for applicants in the local arts community; oversaw the installation of a sculptural window at the entrance to the Cultural Center for the Arts, and renovations and maintenance upgrades there; and spearheaded a green space park project near the former offices of ArtsinStark.
Local arts leader What's new at ArtsinStark? Sculptural window, grant program changes, green space project
Who is Maureen Ater?
Most recently, Ater, who also goes by "Mo," has served as the vice president of marketing and development for Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio. Previously, she served as the general manager of The Canton Repository/GateHouse Ohio Media and as vice president of marketing for United Way of Greater Stark County, the announcement said.
The lifelong Stark County resident is an active volunteer with a number of community boards and initiatives. She lives in Plain Township with her husband, Patrick, and their three daughters.
"I am honored to join ArtsinStark as CEO and am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of the arts in our community," Ater said in a news release. "I look forward to working with the talented team at ArtsinStark, as well as our partners and stakeholders, to further our mission and impact."
Ater will transition into CEO position
Ater will begin her work at ArtsinStark on Feb. 28.
She will initially serve as chief operating officer and then transition to CEO in early June. Currently, longtime ArtsinStark board member Emil Alecusan is serving as interim CEO. Alecusan is the retired chief financial officer of Brewster Cheese.
He also has served as board chairman for Aultman Health Foundation and ArtsinStark, and is a former Canton City Schools board member.
“As CEO, (Ater) will play a pivotal role in advancing ArtsinStark's mission to enhance the cultural landscape of Stark County through grants, cultural initiatives and community programs,” Goff said. “She brings a wealth of non-profit experience and a passion for the Stark County community that will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success of ArtsinStark.”
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This article originally appeared on The Repository: Stark County arts organization names Maureen Ater as new CEO
