Columbus, Ohio – The Greater Columbus Arts Council (GCAC) announced today the appointment of Milton D. Baughman as President, effective immediately.
Baughman has served as GCAC’s interim president since September 1, 2009 and helped the agency work with the community to strengthen its relationships and refocus priorities. Under Baughman’s leadership the agency expanded its partnerships with area organizations, revised its grant funding guidelines to align with Central Ohio economic development goals and conducted an agency review which will become the basis for strategic planning for 2011.
“Over the past year, Milt has earned the trust of the arts and business communities while providing solid leadership as GCAC worked to respond to community needs and priorities,” said Mary Jo Green, GCAC board chair.
Prior to joining GCAC, Baughman was a senior vice president with Huntington National Bank for nearly 20 years. He also has served on the boards of a number of area arts organizations, including ProMusica Chamber Orchestra, where he served as treasurer and chair, and Thurber House, where he served as treasurer. He joined the GCAC board in 2008. Baughman is currently on the board of trustees of Columbus School for Girls.
Baughman has worked closely with arts leaders of organizations of all sizes in their efforts to expand audiences and access to the arts for the entire community.
“Milt represents the kind of leadership our community needs, providing opportunities for individuals and organizations to work more closely towards our common goals,” said Nannette V. Maciejunes, Executive Director of the Columbus Museum of Art and Chair of the Columbus Cultural Leadership Consortium. “He’s helping to unite Columbus artists and arts organizations.”
“Milt has done an excellent job aligning GCAC’s work with community priorities,” said Doug Kridler, President and CEO of The Columbus Foundation. “His inclusive attitude has helped open GCAC up to a broader spectrum of the community and his business background helps provide the stability that is key to strengthening support for Columbus artists and arts organizations.”
About the Greater Columbus Arts Council: Through vision and leadership, advocacy and collaboration, the Greater Columbus Arts Council supports art and advances the culture of the region. A catalyst for excellence and innovation, we fund exemplary artists and arts organizations and provide programs, events and services of public value that educate and engage all audiences in our community. GCAC thanks the City of Columbus, Franklin County, the Ohio Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts for their continued support.
CONTACT: Jami Goldstein
(614) 221-8492
jgoldstein@gcac.org