Prominent Hartford Arts Group Names New Leader

Greater Hartford Arts Council

HARTFORD, CT — Months after a prominent Hartford arts organization fired its director, that group now has a new leader.

The Greater Hartford Arts Council recently announced the appointment of Amanda Roy as its permanent chief executive officer.

Last September, the Rev. Dr. Shelley Best was terminated from her position as chief executive officer following an internal probe, with details regarding the firing never disclosed.

Roy has been serving as the organization's interim CEO since.

"With over a decade of dedicated service to the arts council, Roy is a proven leader, community builder, and passionate advocate for the arts," wrote the GHAC in a statement.

"Her background in program strategy, organizational leadership, and creative practice makes her uniquely suited to guide the GHAC's future."

The organization wrote that, as interim CEO, she spearheaded "deeper community partnerships" and revitalized the organization’s focus, focusing on projects such as the "Art Star Mural" and "Hartford Theater Week."

This month, the organization’s annual fundraiser, Artini, was headlined by 2025 Grammy Award winner Zaccai Curtis, dubbed "a major win for the GHAC."

"Amanda is a pace-setting leader who has consistently shown her unwavering commitment to the Hartford arts community," said the GHAC Board of Directors in a statement.

"She has an exceptional ability to connect with people and build systems rooted in trust and purpose. We are confident that under her leadership, the GHAC will continue to thrive and cultivate an arts ecosystem that truly reflects the vibrant creativity of the Capitol region".

The Greater Hartford Arts Council is a nonprofit organization "dedicated to enriching the quality of life in the region by championing the arts and cultural sector."

For more information on the Greater Hartford Arts Council, visit this link.

From Sept. 10, 2024: 'Prominent Hartford Arts Official Fired From Her Post'