Great Lakes Performing Artist Associates Executive Director Announces Resignation

For Immediate Release

Contact:  Frederick Smith, Interim Director glpaaoffice@gmail.com

Executive Director, Aileen Rohwer, Announces Resignation

Ann Arbor, MI: Great Lakes Performing Artist Associate's Executive Director, Aileen Rohwer, is leaving the organization to take a position as Director of Education and Engagement at the Bravo! Vail Music Festival in Vail, Colorado.  Frederick Smith and Dan Long, current board members, will serve as interim directors beginning January 21.  A search for a new executive director is underway.

GLPAA is an innovative, not-for-profit arts management organization that develops and represents performing artists who reside within the Great Lakes Region and who offer programs suitable for presentation at colleges, museums, theaters, festivals and community events.  Their focus is on developing artists who are committed to education and community outreach.  The board looks forward to using this opportunity to renew their commitment to find new performance venues, participate in educational programs, interact with and bring music to students at all levels and serve the underserved. 

Ms. Rohwer served initially as Administrative Director under the guidance and leadership of former Executive Director, Elizabeth Humes, before taking over the role of Executive Director in January of 2015.  Some of the highlights of her tenure include updating office practices to result in more efficient and effective processes, expanding visibility across the state and region, developing the Caravan Education Program (a program that brings artists to our underserved schools), and working on community outreach to seniors. Ms. Rohwer added artists to the organization's roster and helped to create a more diverse and inclusive board of directors. She launched the Stone Chalet Artist Series and planned and carried out a comprehensive pandemic response plan to benefit both GLPAA and the artists it represents.

In response to Ms. Rohwer's resignation announcement, Board President Margaret Guire noted that “Ms. Rohwer will be able to use her skills in working with emerging artists and school students to bring her success in her new position.”

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