Juliette Reid Appointed as Starkville Area Arts Council’s New Executive Director

Juliette Reid Appointed as Starkville Area Arts Council’s New Executive Director

Starkville’s arts scene has seen a significant shift in leadership. At the Starkville Area Arts Council (SAAC), Juliette Reid, the former program coordinator, has taken over as the Interim Executive Director. The previous Executive Director, Mary Switzer, stepped down to focus on her own artwork and spend more time with her family.

About Mary Switzer

Mary Switzer served on the SAAC Board of Directors for nearly six years prior to assuming the position of Executive Director in December 2021. She expressed gratitude for the support she received during her tenure and shared joy in witnessing the local arts community flourish.

Juliette Reid’s Journey at SAAC

Juliette Reid began her journey at SAAC as an intern in 2019. Her exemplary performance led to her being appointed as the council’s first AmeriCorps VISTA and then as the first program coordinator. Reid’s dedication to promoting arts in Starkville makes her appointment as the interim executive director a natural progression.

Reid’s goals for the SAAC revolve around enhancing its visibility and reputation within the community. She aims to collaborate with local organizations like Starkville Strong, the J.L. King Center, and the Partnership to encourage community engagement and unity. Furthermore, she hopes to introduce more arts programming in the area and to encourage fresh talent to get involved.

Juliette Reid’s Vision For SAAC

Reid aims to make the SAAC the torchbearer for promoting arts in the community. The SAAC board is optimistic about her leadership.

Jim “Nubbin” Herring, the SAAC Board Treasurer, expressed the board’s excitement about Reid assuming the new role. He noted that an evaluation of potential candidates for the permanent role would be conducted after the SAAC’s relocation.

New Location for SAAC

SAAC announced its move to share a space with the local Proof Bakery at 109 W. Main St. This strategic move allows the SAAC to cut costs while retaining its presence in the bustling downtown area.

The new office space is being refreshed with a vibrant new coat of paint in preparation for hosting future events and maintaining an art gallery. While the date for the ribbon-cutting event for the new space is yet to be finalized, the first reception at the new location will be held on September 28.

Continuing Legacy of SAAC’s Programs Regardless of New Space

Reid assured the community that despite the limited space, all popular programs such as Art in the Park and Forks and Corks will continue. She noted that Art Partners still happens every week and the Cotton District Arts Festival still occurs every spring.

The excitement and positive vibes surrounding these new developments at the Starkville Area Arts Council are palpable. As Juliette Reid takes up the helm and SAAC moves to a new location, the city anticipates the flourishing of the local arts community under its new leadership.