Amazing Things Names New Executive Director

Ellen Sturgis has been named as the new executive director of Amazing Things Arts Center in Framingham effective April 1.

Sturgis has served as the interim executive director since January after the departure of former executive director Phil Knudsen.

“All of us at Amazing Things Arts Center - the board, staff, volunteers, and members - are delighted that Ellen will be staying on as our executive director, said Board of Directors Chair Joe Fredette in a press release.

Fredette noted that with more than 25 years of not-for-profit management experience and strong ties to the community, she has already had a positive impact on the organization.

“We’re excited about the future, as we know Ellen brings the skills and experience to effectively manage, grow and strengthen our organization,” said Fredette.

“We are confident that Ellen is the right choice to lead Amazing Things Arts Center. There were many qualified applicants, but when Ellen decided to apply, we knew we had the best candidate, considering the outstanding job she’s done as interim executive director,” said Lynne Damianos, the Board‘s vice chair.

When asked why she wanted to stay on as executive director, Sturgis said, “I was already thrilled to be back in Framingham, but after a few months as interim executive director, I realized Amazing Things was even more special than I knew, and quite honestly, I’ve been having a blast! The team of volunteers here is incredible, and what could be better than being around the live music and creative talent that infuses this place nearly every day? My life’s work is all about community, and having an arts center that sees the direct connection between the arts and building community…well, where else would I want to be?”

Sturgis added, “I look forward to strengthening our ties with the broader community, and to increasing the number of members and volunteers who everyday are making this place a real hub of activity in MetroWest.”

According to Fredette, “This year marks a major milestone for Amazing Things Arts Center - our 10th year of operation - for which we are planning a special celebration in the fall as part of our annual membership mixer. And during these past 10 years we have hosted more than 2,500 live shows, events, and gallery exhibitions; entertained well over 150,000 visitors; nurtured and supported hundreds of local artists, and never lost sight of our core mission -- building community through the arts.” He recalled how Amazing Things founder, Michael Moran, was fond of saying, ‘The arts are a rich form of communication that allows people to meet, understand and accept each other, ‘ and added: “we know Ellen will do a great job carrying this mission forward.”