Building institutions that last.

Jackie took on the enormous challenge of modernizing a historic facility while keeping the doors open and the performances going. We all know that Maryland Hall is an important structure, almost 100 years old, dates from the 1930s, and in need of considerable investment.

Under her leadership, Maryland Hall launched the latest phase of its capital campaign, advancing critical improvements to the hall’s infrastructure, accessibility, energy efficiency, ventilation, and performance spaces.

I think this is an important accomplishment to highlight as so many of us have a tie to this space – as a high school, or having attended performances there, or participated in one. Jackie’s work to ensure the continuity of this important space by securing significant state and private investment will forever be tied with the history and the story of this building.

Also like to speak to the power of the partnerships she forged with other non-profits, including Historic Annapolis and her role on the Annapolis 250 Commission. We worked closely together to execute two important public programs over the past year – a conversation with Abby Phillip and the program with David Rubenstein and Andrea Mitchell. I am proud that relationship between HA and MD hall grew significantly under her management.

I had the privilege of working with Jackie when she was the Senior Executive Advisor of the Arts for Hartford Public Schools. At the time, I was just a few years out of college and at the very beginning of my professional career.

When Jackie was charged with the ambitious goal of creating an arts education collaborative to bridge the Greater Hartford arts community with Hartford Public Schools, she took a chance on me as the organization’s first full-time employee. It was my first job in arts administration and an opportunity that would shape the trajectory of my career.

Jackie was not only ambitious in her vision for what would become Hartford Performs, but incredibly strategic in bringing that vision to life. She made sure I was fully immersed in the process, offering patience, thoughtful feedback, training, and countless opportunities to learn and grow as a young professional and leader.

What I admired most was Jackie’s deeply collaborative, community-centered approach. She understood that building something lasting meant creating it with the community it was intended to serve, and she intentionally made space for many stakeholders’ voices and perspectives throughout the process.

More than a decade later, Hartford Performs continues to serve thousands of students annually, and I remain incredibly grateful to Jackie for taking a chance on me, investing in my growth, and showing me how to lead with heart.

Jackie is a steadfast community leader whose passion for people and the arts is matched only by her commitment to serving others. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Jackie as fellow nonprofit leaders for more than four years, navigating both opportunities and significant challenges, including the years following the pandemic.

Throughout it all, Jackie has led with resilience, courage, and unwavering integrity. Under her leadership, her organization has grown in both strength and impact, becoming a vibrant centerpiece of our local arts community.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jackie is a trusted colleague and generous thought partner. I have watched her generously give back through our local Rotary. I have often sought her perspective on program development, fundraising, and people, knowing her advice is thoughtful, practical, and grounded in experience. She leads with both wisdom and heart, and our community is stronger because of her leadership.

Whether leading her organization or serving through our local Rotary, Jackie consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to strengthening our community.