The Glen Arbor Arts Center has a new executive director as Scott Bouma was named to the role last week.
“I do have a lot of institutional knowledge and history with the organization that I can rely on to help me in this position,” Bouma said. “I’ve always enjoyed the organization and the people and the community. The work culture has been a really great experience over the years.”
Bouma was selected by the GAAC board of directors.
Bouma, who lives in Cedar and originally from Grand Rapids, has been living in the county for 15 years, and working with GAAC for 11 years.
The GAAC has experienced turnover within its ranks in recent months, but are flying full-speed into the Leelanau high-art season spring through fall.
“It’s not any different than turnover in any other organization,” Bouma said. “The staff I work with is a well oiled machine. We can take on a lot and do a lot... We look forward to the summer. It’s a busy season and there’s a lot going on. It’s fun to see people come to the area and watch the sleepy town of Glen Arbor turn into a bustling atmosphere.”
Bouma joined the staff in 2013 as an office manager and rose to the position of operations manager. He replaces Sarah Kime, who served as GAAC’s executive director from 2019 to 2024. Kime leaves the GAAC to join the staff of North Carolina Outward Bound School as Director of Advancement.
“After careful consideration and discussion, our board welcomes (Bouma) into this role given his 11 years of experience with our organization, his historical knowledge of GAAC, and most importantly his strong commitment to our community, our members and our staff,” GAAC President Jeff Gietzen said in a press release.
Bouma is the self-employed and owner of ‘Anchor Web Technology’ which specializes in website development and other related services.
GAAC is also promoting Autumn Kirby to the full-time role of office manager. Kirby joined the GAAC staff in 2021 as an administrative assistant.
The GAAC is creating a new position of development director. The position will focus on “developing and supporting the many relationships the GAAC has been fortunate to enjoy,” Gietzen said.
The new development director will help grow GAAC membership and work with donors and community partners, according to a press release.
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Learning in the arts mentorship program (LAMP)
GAAC is hosting a hands-on artistic programming for ages 16-22 as young adults work directly with local artists, educators and gallery owners.
The program runs in twoweek slots from June 17 – August 19.
In-person Monday, Tuesday, Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon at GAAC. The program is individualized based on the student’s interests and supports teaching artists within a two-week summer camp session. Participants earn a $500 stipend to gain real world experience for careers in the arts.
