Emily Garvin
Durham,NC
Summary
Executive leader with more than two decades advancing arts organizations through strategic planning, program development, and capital projects. Brings a clear ability to move ideas into action—aligning people, resources, and priorities to deliver results. Known for sound judgment, strong partnerships, and steady leadership in complex, evolving environments.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Project Manager
Downsizers
Durham, NC
01.2024 - Current
- Lead senior move management projects, guiding clients and families through complex transitions with clarity, discretion, and strong communication.
- Design highly functional, intentional living spaces tailored to client needs, preferences, and constraints.
- Coordinate logistics across vendors, timelines, and stakeholders to ensure seamless execution.
- Build trust-based relationships with clients, managing highly personal transitions with care and precision.
Executive Director
Liberty Arts
Durham, NC
01.2022 - 01.2024
- Restructured board governance and internal operations, strengthening accountability and organizational effectiveness.
- Led feasibility study and strategic planning for relocation while stabilizing and improving current facility.
- Secured new partnerships and sponsorships, elevating organizational visibility in Durham.
- Directed large-scale public programming, including the Durham Iron Pour, expanding audience engagement.
Executive Director
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts
01.2019 - 01.2022
- Directed multidisciplinary arts center serving 200,000+ patrons annually with $2.3M budget and 15 staff.
- Increased patronage by 60,000 through strategic partnership with Ramshead Productions.
- Designed inclusive, multi-year programming to expand access and engage audiences of color.
- Sustained operations, staffing, and programming through pandemic conditions, maintaining funding and partnerships.
- Directed $3.4M theater restoration and $300K cinema installation, delivered on time and within budget.
- Worked closely with board, city officials, and regional partners to align institutional priorities and community impact.
Vice President, Programs / Chief Creative Officer
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts
01.1999 - 01.2019
- Led long-term strategic planning and operational policy as senior leadership team member.
- Directed 850+ annual classes, events, and rentals across a 68,000 sq. ft. facility.
- Founded and developed a gallery exhibition program supporting resident and regional artists.
Fine Arts Department Chair, Art Instructor
Laurel School
01.1990 - 01.1998
- Led K–12 art department at nationally recognized independent school.
- Created endowed artist invitational program.
- Designed and led renovation of studios, photography center, and light drawing room.
Education
B.F.A. - Sculpture
Cleveland Institute of Art
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Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture
Skills
- Arts administration and team leadership
- Strategic and organizational planning
- Special projects and program design, execution, & evaluation
- Corporate/community partnerships, sponsorships, and events
- Public speaking and teaching
- Historic restoration, materials repurposing, design, & curation
Timeline
Project Manager
Downsizers
01.2024 - Current
Executive Director
Liberty Arts
01.2022 - 01.2024
Executive Director
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts
01.2019 - 01.2022
Vice President, Programs / Chief Creative Officer
Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts
01.1999 - 01.2019
Fine Arts Department Chair, Art Instructor
Laurel School
01.1990 - 01.1998
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Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture
B.F.A. - Sculpture
Cleveland Institute of Art
Honors & Awards
Maryland State Arts Council Panelist, Children’s Theatre - Baltimore, Maryland
Maryland Virginia Beam Award for Excellence in Teaching - Laurel School, Shaker Heights, Ohio
Neff Award for Innovative Teaching - Laurel School, Shaker Heights, Ohio
Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture Scholarship - Skowhegan, Maine
Agnes Gund Award - Cleveland Institute of Art, Cleveland, Ohio