PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Wintergreen Arts Center is looking for a new director, following the Board of Directors’ decision last week to release Wendy Gilman-Zubrick, who’d served as the center’s executive director for the past two years.
In a post on Facebook Nov. 13, Board Chair Martha Grant wished Gilman-Zubrick well but did not indicate what led to their decision, noting “While we recognize that many people will have questions, we will be unable to respond with answers about a confidential personnel matter.” Grant reassured patrons that events and activities would continue as scheduled and asked for “your understanding as we transition to new leadership.”
The news took many by surprise, with parents expressing gratitude to “Miss Wendy” for her service and commitment to their children. While some indicated their uncertainty in attending future programs, others expressed a willingness to give the next director a chance. Grant responded to concerns by posting on Wintergreen’s page, “I’m the chair of the board of directors. Feel free to heap your opprobrium on me.”
Until a new director can be found, the board has selected Heather Harvell of Presque Isle to serve as interim director.
“I was asked to join the Board of Directors in September. The board consists of Martha as chair, and members Heather Sincavage, Anne Hemphill, Cathy Beaulieu, Karen Lodge, Kari Wells-Puckett, Barbara Chalou, Sue Nickerson and Jessalyn Levesque,” said Harvell, who has stepped down from the board since being named interim director.
“I joined about seven weeks ago but gave up my position to take the interim post. I was teaching and doing a lot of work with the center, when they asked me to join the board in September,” said Harvell.
Harvell said she’s aware the executive director of the center wears many hats.
“My goal for stepping in as interim is to continue programming and events as scheduled through the New Year, then the board will reevaluate to fill positions that need to be there. I have a baby due in March and don’t see myself serving long-term,” Harvell said.
She said she’s “very glad” to be in a position doing what she loves.
“My passion is art. The Wintergreen Arts Center is such a huge benefit to the community. The Polar Express is coming, we have the Gingerbread Fest, our ladies’ program, the after-school program and more,” said Harvell. “I’ve taught most of the classes at the center, so it should be an easy transition.”
For more information on Wintergreen and its programs, look for “Wintergreen Arts Center” on Facebook, stop by 149 State St. in Presque Isle or call 762-3576.
