The Rochester Art Center in Rochester, Minnesota, has named Bolz Center alumna Denise Sorom as the organization's new Executive Director. Sorom had been with the organization for two years and had served as the Interim Executive Director since January 2005.

Originally hired as the Art Center’s membership and marketing manager in June 2003, Sorom was instrumental in the promotion and organization of the opening of the Art Center's new facility in May 2004, the launch of new community-friendly programming, and the growth of its membership, which has doubled in the past 18 months. Sorom has a background in arts administration, art history and marketing communications.

''The Art Center is on the brink of its own renaissance,'' Sorom said. ''Through both on-site visits and continued media attention, we are introducing ourselves to hundreds of new people each month. This is the most exciting time in our history, and I am sincerely honored by the opportunity to lead this organization into the future.''

Said Executive Search Committee Chair Linda Gilsrud, ''We were looking for a candidate able to implement and enhance the Art Center's artistic mission, mentor and provide leadership development to the talented staff, as well as strengthen financial accountability and reenergize community outreach. Denise's success in her two years in a number of demanding roles was a key factor in the choice.''

The Rochester Art Center hopes to become the premiere center for the visual arts in its region. You can learn more about the organization on its web site.

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