Kristina Newman—Scott, who currently serves as the first immigrant and first woman of color as the director of culture for the State of Connecticut, will join BRIC in September
BRIC has appointed Kristina Newman—Scott, the current director of culture for the State of Connecticut, as the arts organization's new president. She will be taking over for Leslie Griesbach Schultz who announced her departure last September after a 13-year tenure.
"We are thrilled and honored to welcome Kristina to Brooklyn," said Hilary Ackermann, chair of BRIC's board of directors. "She has found innovative ways to support artists, cultural practitioners, media-makers and creative entrepreneurs throughout her singular career. As a creative leader, she has the experience and vision to build on our success and help chart our path for the future."
A native of Kingston, Jamaica, Newman-Scott became an acclaimed painter while studying visual arts at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. In 2005, Newman-Scott moved to Connecticut where she assumed the position as director of visual arts at Real Art Ways in Hartford. Five years later, she was appointed the director of programs at the Boston Center for the Arts, where she led the management, design, implementation and evaluation of programs in the fields of literature, dance, visual art, public art, theater and education, including a small business program focused on creative businesses.
In 2012 Newman-Scott assumed her first position in government as director of marketing, events and cultural affairs for the city of Hartford. Three years later, she was appointed as the director of culture for the State of Connecticut; she is the first immigrant and first woman of color to serve in that position.
Newman-Scott's has been a TEDx speaker, visiting curator, guest lecturer or featured presenter at colleges, universities, organizations and events throughout Connecticut, across the country and internationally. In addition to being a visual artist, she has worked as a creative strategies consultant, and a television and radio producer in Jamaica.
"The mission of BRIC—including using the arts as a catalyst to create vibrant, connected, and strong communities—has been part of my DNA as long as I can remember," said Newman-Scott. "When we have access to the arts, we can most effectively advocate for our needs, educate our children, invest in the talent around us and support each other. I am honored be a part of the BRIC team, and to continue this important and rewarding work."
Newman-Scott will assume her post in September, just in time for BRIC's annual JazzFest in October.
