September 24, 2020
Dear Colleagues,
I’m writing to let you know that I will be stepping away from my role as CEO of the National Guild on November 20th, following the 2020 Annual Meeting. It has been my delight and privilege to serve as a Guild staff member for the past 25 years, including as CEO since 2004. These years have been a gift. I feel blessed to have worked, lived and grown with an organization that I am so fond of. The people I have worked alongside at the Guild have been such wonderful and generous colleagues, mentors, partners, co-conspirators and friends. I extend my warmest appreciation to you.
You may already have heard this news. I began to discuss my departure back in January and an announcement was planned for March, which was then delayed by COVID-19. My decision to leave the Guild was driven by personal and family priorities as well as my desire to make space for the next generation of leadership. I firmly believe that the Guild is in a strong position and poised for a vibrant, thriving future.
Over the years, the Guild has demonstrated its ability to respond and innovate. I am particularly proud of the ways we have grown and broadened our tent. I am so grateful to work with a stellar, highly skilled staff that is motivated, energized and committed to learning and to transforming the Guild so it can most effectively contribute to the fulfillment of our mission. I am so pleased to have worked closely with current and former trustees who bring critical leadership, vision, energy and support to the institution.
Most of all, I am continually inspired by the work that our members and networks do to ensure arts education is accessible and embraced as essential for human development and healthy communities. This has been especially true these last challenging months.
While I am looking forward to new challenges and opportunities, I know that I will always remain committed and connected to our shared mission. I had very much been looking forward to celebrating the end of my tenure at the Guild in person at our annual conference in NYC in November. I regret this missed opportunity but encourage you to reach out to me anytime.
Thank you for everything you do to expand creative opportunities and enliven communities across the country.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Herman
CEO
National Guild for Community Arts Education
jonathanherman@nationalguild.org
212.268.3972
Published: September 24, 2020