Dear Friends and Colleagues,

 

Over the past few months, Galería de la Raza’s Board of Directors and Executive Director have been doing institutional soul-searching. How do we build organizational sustainability in times of economic uncertainty? What organizational structure is paramount for lean financial times? What innovative business models can help us secure Galería’s future? How do we engage new generations of artists, advocates, and cultural leaders in this process?

 

Our main priority is to ensure an organizational infrastructure that will sustain the high standards of our artistic programs. Although we do not have all the answers yet, we are taking some important steps. First, we would like to announce that Carolina Ponce de Leon is ending her tenure as Executive Director, effective May 15.  After a short break, Carolina will return to Galería in the capacity of Artistic Director.  Second, the Board of Directors will embark on a strategic plan that will survey Galería’s needs and opportunities and set a five-year plan of action.

 

The Board of Directors is fully committed to maintaining Carolina’s artistic leadership as a central piece of the Galería’s future work. For 13 years, Carolina’s artistic vision has shaped the organization, showcasing the highest quality Latino cultural and artistic production, and bringing to the forefront the creative energy of artists and cultural leaders across generations. From innovative visual arts exhibitions to grassroots community gatherings, Carolina has pioneered Galería into one of the most cutting-edge and forward-thinking Latino arts organizations in the country.

 

To further support this flux, we have established an interim operational team that will oversee Galería’s day-to-day activities. Board Treasurer, Ani Rivera, who a few years ago served as Galería’s Business Manager, will take on the role of Executive Director. Ani’s recent work in the Fiscal Sponsorship sector included community and organizational development for many Bay Area non-profit programs. Galería looks forward to incorporating her expertise in governance, community development, and financial and project management as we move forward and define our future work.