Staff
Morgan Drewniany, Executive Director of the Cultural District
Morgan attended Hampshire College with a focus on the intersection of environmental chemistry, public health, and social justice. Her passion for serving all of the population, not just those with a high level of education and privilege, brought her to the field of economic development after graduation. She began her professional career as Assistant Director of the Springfield Business Improvement District, but was pleased to move into the realm of arts and culture as they relate to all fields of growth for Springfield. These differing experiences combine to help to shape Morgan into the true asset she is for the Cultural District.
Joe Carnovale, Social Media/Marketing Intern
Joe Carnovale is a rising senior at UMass Amherst, majoring in Communication with a minor in Political Science. He was born in Springfield and grew up in East Longmeadow, MA. He enjoys playing guitar and photography in his free time. He is hoping to find a career in communications or social media after graduation. Joe is excited to play a role in helping improve the artistic and cultural vibrancy of Springfield.
Lauren Padilla, Advocacy Intern
Lauren Padilla is a student at Johns Hopkins University studying Writing Seminars, as well as Marketing and Communications. Her previous internships include roles at Girls' Life Magazine, Baltimore STYLE, and Edheads. In her free time, Lauren enjoys creative writing, illustration, and traveling. She hopes to pursue a career in editing or communications.
Board of Directors
Chairman of the Board - Rus Peotter, WGBY
Vice Chair - Eileen McCaffery, Community Music School
Treasurer - Chris Russell, Springfield Business Improvement District
Secretary - Kay Simpson
Benjamin Smith, Springfield Cultural Council
Bob McCarroll, Mattoon Street Arts Festival
Evan Plotkin, City Mosaic
James Woolsey, Springfield Armory National Historic Site
Jay Minkarah, Develop Springfield
John Doleva, Basketball Hall of Fame
John Simpson, Independent Artist and Art Professor
Judy Matt, Spirit of Springfield
Kateri Walsh, Springfield City Council
Kay Simpson, Springfield Museums
Lyman Wood
Mark Checkwicz, Springfield Public Schools
Martin Miller, New England Public Radio
Mary Kay Wydra, Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau
Molly Fogarty, Springfield Public Libraries
Nate Harris, MassMutual Convention Center
Peter Salerno, Springfield Symphony Orchestra
Scott Hanson, City of Springfield Office of Planning
Tina D'Agostino, CityStage and Symphony Hall
Wayne Phaneuf, The Republican