VisArts Names Chief Executive Officer
Good Insight is pleased to share that our client, VisArts, a nonprofit arts hub and incubator in Rockville, Maryland, announced Lisa Marie Ryder as their Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ryder began her new role in June, following an extensive national search led by Good Insight.
As the only organization in the region focused exclusively on transforming individuals and communities through the visual arts and the largest employer of visual artists in Montgomery County, Maryland, VisArts offers a wide range of programs for artists of all ages and abilities.
“Lisa Marie’s experience and passion for arts and cultural programming will be a tremendous asset to VisArts,” said Bob Elliott, who co-Chaired the VisArts’ Board Search Committee, along with fellow Board member Anand Vaishnav. “As we approach 40 years of enriching lives through the arts, I am confident Lisa Marie has the vision to expand and strengthen our contributions.”
“VisArts provides unique value, both to artists and the wider community,” said Ryder. “I am thrilled to work with the talented instructors, board members, and arts supporters who are drawn to and co-create the special environment that is VisArts. Together, we will foster creativity and further advance VisArts’ mission of social impact, strengthening the fabric of our community.”
“We are incredibly fortunate to access the talents of Heller An, a great friend to VisArts who has provided expert guidance in our two most recent strategic planning initiatives,” said Sonal Verma, VisArts Board Chair.
Lisa Marie replaces retiring CEO Alice Nappy, who led VisArts for 15 years.
About Lisa Marie Ryder
Lisa Marie Ryder brings an extensive arts background and expertise in nonprofit management, museum education, and community engagement. Ryder comes to VisArts from the Claggett Center, a multi-generational camp and conference facility, where as co-Executive Director she led operations, strategic planning, and financial growth, including a $5M capital campaign and diversity initiatives.
Ryder’s past roles include directing the Alabama Folk School and Camp Latgawa, where she expanded programs and increased community engagement. She also held leadership positions at the National Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C., enhancing outreach and visitor experiences. She worked in education at The Phillips Collection, developing programs that connect diverse audiences with art through literacy.
She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Museum Education from The George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Art from Eureka College.
About VisArts
Through art classes, camps, contemporary art galleries, artist residencies and fellowships, a supported studio program for artists with disabilities, and community outreach initiatives, VisArts provides children, teens, and adults with opportunities to express themselves, develop their skills, connect with others, and enrich their lives. VisArts serves nearly 32,000 individuals annually, fostering creativity and community engagement across Montgomery County and beyond. For more information, visit www.visartscenter.org.