Glen Arbor Arts Center names Scott Bouma new executive director
From staff reports
Scott Bouma, a resident of Cedar, is the Glen Arbor Arts Center’s (GAAC) new executive director, as announced last week in a media release. Bouma joined the GAAC staff in 2013 as an office manager and rose to the position of operations manager. He replaces Sarah Kime, who served as GAAC’s executive director from 2019 until this month. Kime leaves the Arts Center to join the staff of North Carolina Outward Bound School as director of advancement.
According to board president Jeff Gietzen in a February email, Kime oversaw significant growth at the GAAC during her six years at the helm, which included: increasing the number and diversity of classes and programs; increasing fundraising revenue through contributions, grants, and membership and Curator Circle giving; developing the Manitou Musician-in-residence program, Learning in Arts Mentorship Program, and Creative Wellness retreats; and establishing several meaningful regional community relationships with the Dennos Museum at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City, Interlochen Public Radio, Pine Street Studios / TC Dance Project, Glen Lake Community Schools and The Leelanau School.
“We are excited to announce that the Glen Arbor Arts Center Board of Directors has selected Scott Bouma as our new Executive Director,” said Gietzen. “After careful consideration and discussion, our board welcomes Scott into this role given his 11 years of experience with our organization, his historical knowledge of GAAC, and most importantly his strong commitment to our community, our members and our staff.
“Additionally, we are happy to announce the promotion of Autumn Kirby to the full-time role of office manager,” Gietzen said. Kirby joined the GAAC staff in 2021 as administrative assistant. Kirby is an Interlochen resident.
The GAAC is creating a new position of development director. This position will focus on “developing and supporting the many relationships the GAAC has been fortunate to enjoy,” Gietzen said. The new development director will help grow GAAC membership and work with donors and community partners.
