Courtesy photo Former Bonifas Arts Center Executive Director Susan Rolll, left, and new Executive Director Irina Bruno are pictured in the Bonifas Gallery

ESCANABA — The Bonifas Arts Center has announced a change in its leadership. Irina Bruno is the new executive director of the Bonifas, as of Sept. 1. Bruno takes the reins from Sue Roll, who has worked as executive director since Jan. 1, 2018, and also worked for two and a half years as the Bonifas business director.

Bruno was selected after an extensive search and interviews by the Bonifas Board of Trustees. She holds a master of business administration degree in international management and a bachelor of arts degree in geography and economics.

“I am honored and look forward to continue working with our dedicated and talented staff, the board of trustees, and volunteers. The Bonifas is recognized in the Central U.P. as a venerable cultural and education organization bringing to our communities varied exhibits, lively events and educational outreach. It is a unique place where people of all ages can meet the artists, flex their creative chops, learn new skills and simply have a great time! I hope to provide the experience, energy, and drive needed to lead this wonderful institution into the future and ensure that our community continues to benefit from its presence,” Bruno said.

The leadership change has been in the works for nearly a year. Roll will be reducing her hours to focus on her family and a ‘pre-retirement’ lifestyle. She will continue to work part-time for the Bonifas, concentrating on grant writing and supporting Bruno’s transition.

“I am excited that my new job will include grant writing — something I’ve learned about and practiced over the last several years,” Roll said. “I will also be researching additional financial support options for the Bonifas, and helping with other special projects. Because continuity is crucial, Irina and I will work together to ensure that this transition is smooth and that our members and our community will continue to take pride in the Bonifas Arts Center.”

Bruno has worked as education coordinator at the Bonifas for the past three years, a role which had her developing several new class series, attracting new class participants, recruiting new artists as instructors, and ultimately, strengthening the arts center’s bottom line.

“Irina brings to the executive director position a strong knowledge of business and finance and a deep commitment to bringing arts experiences into people’s lives,” Roll said.

According to Roll, the Bonifas remains committed as ever in its mission to continue working to enhance and inspire the cultural and creative lives of the people in the Central Upper Peninsula.

“We would like to assure our members and the general community that the Bonifas will remain a creative force of artistic talent in our community,” Roll said.

For more information on the Bonifas Arts Center, visit www.bonifasarts.org or call (906) 786-3833.