Berkshire Museum Announces New Chief Engagement Officer
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PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Berkshire Museum welcomes Bridget Rigas as its new chief engagement officer.
Rigas has more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, donor engagement and management of cultural and educational organizations, most recently as the director of development at Mass MoCA. Her experience also includes serving on several community boards and committees, where she has gained expertise on strategic planning, organizational assessment and community engagement.
"This is a key time for the Berkshire Museum," Rigas said. "The museum's commitment and promise to Pittsfield, Berkshire County, and the region is stronger than ever, and I am happy to have the opportunity to work with the board, staff, and community. We are excited to dig in and work together to ensure that Zenas Crane's vision for the museum remains a window to the world for students and visitors. As a new resident of Pittsfield, I am also eager to learn more about the county's most diverse and dynamic city."
As chief engagement officer, Rigas will be a member of the leadership team, and responsible for all aspects of fund development, including the annual fund, membership, grants and sponsorships, special events, capital campaigns, and other initiatives. She will also oversee communications and community engagement.
As director of development at Mass MoCA, Rigas led a development team that raised up to $4 million annually and was part of a team that raised $30 million from private support toward the renovation of Mass MoCA's B6: Robert W. Wilson Building. She has worked with several other not for profits and cultural organizations, including Glimmerglass Festival, Farmers' Museum, Museum of the Earth, BTI at Cornell University, and Wharton Studio Museum.
Bridget received her M.A. in museum studies from the Cooperstown Graduate Program.
"We are excited to hire quality, experienced staff to key leadership positions that build upon our current, talented team. We all are committed to keeping the Berkshire Museum a vital resource that serves our community by bringing together art, science, and history through the museum's extraordinary collection," said Elizabeth McGraw, president of the Board of Trustees.
Rigas takes over for Nina Garlington, who is now serving as the chief of staff. Garlington just finished one of the museum's most successful fundraising years with strong support via its annual fund, grants and sponsorships, and membership programs, as well as a record-breaking 2018 summer gala. Over her almost seven-year tenure, Garlington has strengthened and expanded these programs to cumulatively raise over $6.2 million for annual operating support.
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