Staunton Performing Arts Center welcomes new executive director

Today, the Staunton Performing Arts Center Board of Directors welcomed the appointment of Lori Stewart as its new executive director, following confirmation by the members, that she would assume the role as the head of Staunton’s largest performing arts project on June 1.

“The SPAC Board of Directors conducted a national search and a candidate pool of 24 applicants. We appointed Lori Stewart as the next Executive Director of the Staunton Performing Arts Center and are very enthusiastic to work with her to make this project become a reality,” said Janie Ballurio, president of SPAC’s Board of Directors. “We also congratulate the current executive director, Judy Mosedale, on her well-deserved retirement on June 1, which will allow her to time to celebrate the many accomplishments she achieved at SPAC.”

Stewart has earned a masters in business administration (with a concentration in marketing), is certified in fund raising, and has experience in financial management.  She comes from Gettysburg, Pa., where she recently served as the executive director of a national tourist attraction and the director of development and communications for an international, nonprofit charity.

“The challenge to successfully develop a sustainable performing arts center in this beautiful Valley is exciting to me. I offer every support to the community and desire to create a venue of profound opportunities for connecting the community to artists, in both education and performance for all ages,” said  Stewart.

Judy Mosedale will be retiring on June 1 after eight years of growing the organization’s vision from a small theatre for local community groups into a full-scale performing arts complex that will present national touring acts.   “The acquisition of the adjoining Arcadia Building was the key to providing the needed space for all of the amenities that a professional theatre needs to present quality performances.  I am thankful that we took the time to prepare for the best possible center,” said Mosedale.

Stewart and Mosedale will be working together until the end of May. “It thrills me to hand over a job that I have loved and nurtured to someone who, I am confident, has the expertise, experience, and instincts to take it to the next level.  I cannot wait for Opening Night!” exclaimed Mosedale.