CATA Announces New Board President, Staff Changes
 |
| John J. Whalan |
Whalan is the founder and president of Black Ice Entertainment, a media development and production company based here, and has been on CATA’s board for 10 years.
Whalan said, "CATA is one of the finest organizations in Berkshire County. Under the leadership of Sandy Newman, a team of generous professional staff and artists nurture and celebrate the idea that everyone should be recognized for their unique talents. I hope to build on the successes of my predecessors, Janet Elsbach and Ben Silberstein, to further strengthen the support that has allowed CATA, its participants and clients to continue to flourish."
CATA also appointed Adrienne Brown to a newly created position of program coordinator for Berkshire County. An educator with a background in art and experience working with people with disabilities, Adrienne will oversee day-to-day operation of CATA’s arts workshops. In addition, Katie Clarke has been promoted to administrative director. Maria Mazzocco, formerly a North County staff member, now holds the countywide post of assistant program coordinator.
Founder and Executive Director Sandra Newman said, “I am very grateful that John Whalan will continue the strong leadership that CATA has been fortunate to have throughout our 18 years of programs in the Berkshires. His deep understanding of our work has helped us to enhance our wonderful staff to meet our current growth.”
CATA, which provides visual and performing arts opportunities for 600 area residents with disabilities, is headquartered on Railroad Street and has an operating budget of $600,000. The organization collaborates with 29 different health and human service organizations to offer 1,000 individual workshops annually in the visual and performing arts. For more information, images, videos, and shopping opportunities, visit www.communityaccesstothearts.org.
