Arts Center of Fountain Park names first director
Non-profit veteran to start Aug. 1
The Arts Center at Fountain Park announced yesterday that it is appointing Todd Leahy as its first executive director.
Leahy’s appointment marks the conclusion of a “thoughtful” search conducted by the ACFP board of directors. ACFP aims to be the home for performing arts across York, Lancaster, and Chester counties in South Carolina.
A news release said Leahy brings more than 16 years of major fundraising experience to ACFP and a deep passion for arts and community building.
“It was imperative for us to find someone who not only understood the job requirements but who also embodies the heart of our mission. Todd shares our vision to put The Arts Center truly at the center of the performing arts in our region both physically and metaphorically,” Matthew Dosch, chairman of the ACFP board, said.
Most recently, Leahy was the major gifts officer for United Way of Central Carolinas. There he raised more than $2 million annually while managing a robust portfolio of donors at all levels. Since 2011—and across multiple roles—he not only raised record numbers but also forged lasting community relationships that continue forward.
His passion for the performing arts was passed down to Leahy as a child, and it’s something he’s doing for his children today.
“As a kid, I went to shows in Spartanburg, and just recently, we gave my daughter a season pass to [the] Blumenthal [Performing Arts Center]. I’m passing it down. That’s what I want to build within the region—a love of the arts that outlives us all,” he said.
Leahy is tasked with leading ACFP in its mission to connect, educate, and inspire through shared celebration of the arts.
“We met with many candidates who could do the role’s tasks, but it was Todd who truly grasped the need to connect an active, engaged, and inclusive community of performing artists and arts organizations, while touching the lives, passions, and imagination of those who share a love for the performing arts,” ACFP Board Secretary Melanie Jones said.
“I want every part of the community to feel like they can participate. Whether taking a class, attending a concert, listening to the symphony, or going to a school play, art should be accessible and enjoyed widely. I am immensely grateful to the ACFP board, the search committee, and the community for giving me this opportunity,” Leahy said.
For more information about The Arts Center at Fountain Park, and how you can become involved, visit www.theartscenterfp.org.