|
Dear Artists, Community, and Supporters, On behalf of the Board of Directors we would like to take this opportunity to share an important update about Self Help Graphics & Art; please join us in honoring and celebrating the incredible work of our Executive Director, Betty Avila! After five years as an Executive Director for Self Help Graphics & Art, and almost eight years on staff, Betty Avila will be transitioning to a new chapter in her life and career. Betty’s leadership has been pivotal in fostering the sustainability of Self Help Graphics & Art, and we feel truly honored to celebrate her inspirational leadership and support her in this next phase. Betty will be stepping down from the Executive Director role effective June 30, 2023. The Board of Directors is grateful for her many years of service and the growth the organization has experienced thanks to Betty’s collaborative leadership and vision with our Board, team and community. The organization experienced unprecedented growth and stability in her tenure as a thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated leader. We want to take this opportunity to thank and celebrate Betty for her dedication to the organization and highlight some of the many significant accomplishments, including: Successfully promoted our mission for the equitable representation of Chicano and Latinx artists and institutions. Ensured the permanence of Self Help Graphics with the purchase of our building. Since joining the organization, Betty has strengthened our annual operating budget and strategically enabled our growth aspirations by adding staff to support our community and increased the staff by 3x allowing us to expand our impact.
While this is a bittersweet moment for SHG, as a Board we will be continuing to support Betty and staff during this transition as well as preparing for this next phase in the organization. We have created a Leadership Transition and Continuity Committee to have a thoughtful transition plan and will convene a search committee to identify an Executive Director who will continue to focus on our mission and values.
We are excited to share the news that the Nonprofit Sustainability Initiative awarded us an Executive Transition grant to help support our planning and process. Please join us in thanking Betty for her dedication and wishing her the best in this new chapter. Betty’s legacy at Self Help Graphics will be seen and felt for many generations to come. In the forthcoming weeks we will share further information about our next steps in the search for a new Executive Director. Until then, we encourage you to read her heartfelt letter to you, our beloved art community and wish her the best during this meaningful transition!
With Gratitude, The Self Help Graphics & Art Board of Directors
|
