WAC Names New Director

After an extensive search, the Westport Arts Center has found a new Executive Director to drive the next phase of its growth and expansion. Weston resident Cynthia Armijo has been named the Westport Arts Center’s new Executive Director. Her previous roles include serving as the Director of National Advocacy for the non-profit Boys Town, the Executive Director of Boys Town New York, and the CEO/Executive Director of the Norwalk YMCA. Throughout her career, which began in the financial services arena, Ms. Armijo has been a longtime volunteer and supporter of non-profit organizations.

“From an early age, I was taught that the quality of our community was based on the involvement of each of us.  My father was an active volunteer in San Francisco where I grew up and since my early twenties I have been a part of organizations that emphasize education and exposure to the arts,” said Armijo. “We are bringing art to the community in new ways and our outreach programs create a link to communities that would otherwise be disconnected,” she added. 

Chrissey Hunt, President of the Westport Arts Center Board of Directors, stated, “Cynthia will lead the organization with a results orientation and an appreciation for the important role that the arts and the Westport Arts Center play in our community."

Bill Felton, Westport Arts Center Board Member, added, "We are pleased that Cynthia has accepted the Executive Directorship. Her credentials are perfect for us, and we look forward to our next chapter under her leadership.”

Armijo’s combination of financial, non-profit, operational and fundraising experience make her uniquely poised to help drive future growth for the Westport Arts Center. Her appointment comes at a time when the Arts Center has been focused on securing a new physical location in order to provide expanded visual and performance arts programming and deeper community outreach efforts.

“Cynthia arrives at an opportune time as the Town’s final planning recommendations for the Westport Arts Center and our own ambitions converge. We are excited to envision a wonderful downtown location for our future home as an anchor to Westport's cultural and arts community,” said Lance Lundberg, Westport Arts Center’s Chairman of the Board.  

Armijo also brings extensive regulatory and legislative experience to her new role. In her position as Director of National Advocacy for Boys Town, she worked with representatives of local, state and federal government on legislation designed to create meaningful change for families and children. Additionally, she was an elected board member of the Council and Family and Child Care Agencies in New York City.

“Our local, state and federal representatives are all relevant to the Westport Arts Center,” said Armijo. “Ultimately these are the people who help to bring funding back to our community.”

Armijo, who was born in San Francisco, CA, earned her undergraduate degree at San Francisco Sate University. She is married and is the mother of three girls.

“I’m taking the reins of a very well-run organization, and we will continue to build the Westport Arts Center’s influence as the premiere arts organization in the community,” Armijo said. “I’m joining a fantastic team already in place and I look forward to getting to know our donors, community partners, and all the friends of the organization.”

PHOTO CREDIT: Cynthia Armijo, photographed by Helen Klisser During for the Westport Arts Center

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Submitted by Fairfield, CT

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