Jim McDonald, Executive Director since 2001, has worked closely with the board, staff, and committees on all aspects of operations, from fundraising to program management. Prior to joining The Art connection, he served for six years as executive director of the Associates of the Boston Public Library, Inc. He also spent several years in public relations (Boston Public Library) and theatre management (Hancher Auditorium, Iowa City). He holds Masters Degrees in both Arts Administration and Piano Performance, both from the University of Iowa. He and his wife Joni are stewards-in-residence at the Harvard Musical Association.
Tova Speter, Program Manager since 2005, is a local artist, art therapist, and arts educator experienced in creating public art and leading art workshops with a variety of populations ranging from pre-school to adults. With a master's degree in Art Therapy from Lesley University, Tova is committed to sharing the creative energy of the arts with the greater community. She has also facilitated numerous local and international mural projects providing the opportunity for community members to be directly engaged in the artistic process. Tova manages the donation and placement program, working closely with artists and nonprofit representatives, and she is a participating art donor.
Sarah B. Shallbetter, Program Coordinator since 2001, is a visual artist. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Minnesota and a post-baccalaureate degree from UMass, Dartmouth. She is a member of The Boston Printmakers and works out of Mixit Studios in Somerville. In addition to managing the office and working closely with the program manger, she facilitates agency and artist outreach and manages extensive follow-up procedures with both groups. She also manages a comprehensive artist/agency/funders' database and is a participating art donor.