Summit, NJ: The Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is proud to announce that Derek Mithaug has joined the staff as Executive Director. As former Executive Director of The Wharton Music Center (WMC), Mithaug oversaw the acquisition of The New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS), creating New Jersey’s largest independent community center for the performing arts. WMC is recognized by the Dodge foundation as one of three top organizations to watch.
“Mithaug has the experience to set a new strategic direction to help position the Art Center as a leading Contemporary Arts Center bringing art and people together in the tri-state region” explained Art Center Trustee, Helaine Winer. “Derek brings an impressive background of professional and educational experiences, combined with artistic depth that we believe will strengthen the Art Center.”
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Derek received an MA in Higher Education Administration from Columbia University’s Teacher’s College in New York as well as a BA and MA in music from The Juilliard School. Juilliard places a high value on the integration of the arts as enriching for both students and new audiences. Regarding the new position, Derek stated, “I am thrilled to be joining the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey. The level of passion and commitment for the organization’s contemporary art exhibitions, community engagement programs, and studio art classes is exemplary. It is an honor to join a team of so many talented professionals devoted to advancing a mission that makes it possible for people of any age to create, experience, and learn about art.”
Mithaug begins his new post on February 18, succeeding Marion Grzesiak who will be retiring. After five years at the helm, Grzesiak leaves behind a strong legacy of implementing acclaimed exhibitions and outreach programs among other accomplishments within the New Jersey arts community.
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About the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey
Founded in 1933, the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey is the state’s largest organization dedicated exclusively to viewing, making and learning about contemporary art. Comprising a renowned studio school and a thriving exhibition, education and programming schedule, the Art Center serves over 60,000 individuals from the tri-state region each year.
