By Mark Boshnack
Staff Writer
A new leader will be taking the helm of the Upper Catskill Community Council of the Arts today.
The arts agency named Sara Hammonds, 28, of Oneonta, as its executive director Tuesday, an official said. Her focus will begin with community outreach, programs and fund development, board President and Chief Executive Officer Linda MacKenzie-Ranc said.
Hammonds replaces Kathleen Frascatore, who resigned in June. Former Opportunities for Otsego Executive Director Cheri Albrecht had been serving in an interim position since June.
The council at Wilber Mansion, 11 Ford Ave., offers artist support services, classes, gallery showings and other programs and community events.
"I'm ready to get my feet wet and hit the ground running," Hammonds said. Her first priority will be getting a deeper understanding of all that the organization does.
"There is a really strong and supportive board of directors and staff, that will make the job easier,'' she said. "I think we have a lot of potential for expanding programming and resources to the community."
"It is an exciting time for UCCCA as we approach the launch of celebrating our 40th year,'' MacKenzie-Ranc said. "Sara's expertise and vitality is a fabulous addition to the Arts Council team and community."
The newly appointed administrator will continue teaching in the communications arts department at the State University College at Oneonta. She moved to Oneonta in August, when her husband, Professor Joshua Hammonds, was hired at the college.
She started volunteering for UCCCA soon after the move, she said. Her work on the film series has helped acquaint her with the organization's potential, she said.
The appointment followed a search that began in December, MacKenzie-Ranc said. It was conducted with the assistance of a committee, consisting of board members, Albrecht, and two community members, that reviewed 45 applicants, she said. The final interviews were conducted Friday.
Hammonds stood out not only for her "professionalism" but also her experience in related areas, and her presentation to the board about her plans and her belief in the arts, MacKenzie-Ranc said. "She is a forward thinker, who is results-oriented," she said.
MacKenzie-Ranc said she was grateful for the work of Albrecht through the transition. The work of board, staff and volunteers, has also been essential in getting the organization to where it is today, she said.
"I am very pleased with the choice that the board made," Albrecht said.
She said she was looking forward getting back to her family and consulting work. She will be working with the new administrator for at least two weeks to help with the transition.
