Welcoming Jamie Abbott as the New CA Executive Director
We are happy to welcome Jamie Abbott as the organization’s new Executive Director. Abbott, a longtime local, is no stranger to working in arts, leadership, and organizational development positions in the Roaring Fork Valley. She has worked for nearly 25 years in the nonprofit sector, including 15 years at Aspen Words (formerly Aspen Writers’ Foundation) where she worked every position from Operations Assistant to Programs Manager to Director. Abbott has most recently been the Development Director for Colorado Mountain College, leading a talented team working on funding strategic priorities for the college statewide.
“I have spent my career working to support my community – in creative, environmental and educational fields – always with an eye toward innovation, problem-solving and impact. I enjoy working with inspired and inspiring people, fundraising for good causes, building partnerships, and really connecting with all the different people who make up our special mountain towns,” says Abbott. “There’s nothing I believe in more than the importance of community, and the role an organization like Carbondale Arts can have in a community.”
“We were very honored and lucky to have many qualified candidates apply for this role, but Jamie stood out from the very beginning – her poise and respect toward the position and our organization were noticeable. Her ability to listen, her consideration, and her leadership were prevalent. There is so much good that has been built at Carbondale Arts, and the next leader needs to be able to navigate all of it. Jamie exhibits that,” explains Board of Directors Co-Chair Leah Swan.
Abbott, who will begin her new role on October 1st, enters the position of Executive Director on the heels of Amy Kimberly’s eighteen-year tenure with the organization. Kimberly’s departure from the Director position coincides with the turn of the calendar year, so Abbott and Kimberly will have a few months of overlap together at the helm. Kimberly defines her transition as “rewirement.” She will still be a familiar face in Carbondale, with plans to continue directing the Green is the New Black Fashion Show, volunteering for Mountain Fair, and staying engaged with the Carbondale Creative District, the creation of which was one of Kimberly’s key accomplishments during her leadership at Carbondale Arts. Kimberly describes Abbott as “kind and graceful, with wonderful experience working with artists and raising money. That’s a winning combination for this organization.”
“I’m obviously stepping into gigantic shoes,” says Abbott, “and am looking forward to spending the next couple of months learning from Amy and the Carbondale Arts staff and board. I’m hopeful that my experience in the valley, in the arts, and in the nonprofit realm can be of service to the community, and continue the wonderful tradition of Carbondale Arts.” Rich notes, “Carbondale Arts is a strong, tightly knit tribe, and its love of community spirit, creativity, and volunteerism will mesh well with Jamie’s talents to keep Carbondale Arts moving forward. Amy leaves the organization in strong and vibrant shape, and it will continue to thrive.”
The Carbondale Arts future is bright, and there is a lot to celebrate and anticipate. Join the community as it celebrates Kimberly’s rewirement at the “Wham Blam Thank You Ma’am'' gala and fashion pop up on September 10th at Craft Coffee House in Carbondale.