Dear Friends, 

I’m writing today on behalf of The Board of Directors of The Umbrella Arts Center to announce the appointment of Eileen Williston as the Center’s next Executive Director. An experienced arts administrator with over 16 years of proven success in nonprofit management, Eileen joined the organization in 2020 and currently serves as The Umbrella’s Deputy Director.

Eileen has made the arts the center of her life’s work. Her proven track record, strategic vision, and operational expertise, as well as her deep understanding of the arts landscape in our region, make her the perfect candidate to lead The Umbrella into its next chapter. After a thoughtful and detailed selection process over several months, the Board has voted to unanimously and enthusiastically welcome Eileen as the next Executive Director.

Eileen will succeed our current Executive Director, Jerry Wedge, who will be retiring from The Umbrella after 12 years of leadership marked by the renovation and expansion of the arts center. Jerry shares, “I am absolutely thrilled the Board has selected Eileen to take over as The Umbrella’s new Executive Director. She has been central to our planning and growth over the past four years, and she is exceptionally well-equipped to lead this organization into the next generation of growth and success.”

Jerry will remain in his role through June 30, 2024, with Eileen stepping in as Executive Director effective July 1, 2024.

I invite you to read the full release here.

We look forward to inviting the community to join together with the staff and Board in the months ahead to celebrate and recognize Jerry’s tremendous contribution to our community and our exciting future.

-- Ellen McHale,
Board Chair