Visitors to the ArtWorks Center often pass through our second floor office and comment on how lucky we are to have such a view. While we certainly won’t argue with that, we also believe that our colleagues and volunteers — the view inside — are what make us truly lucky. Which is why we at the AACA are excited to introduce our new office manager. Take it away, Kelsey:

Hello, my name is Kelsey Ritchie, and I have happily accepted the role of Office Manager at the Austin Area Commission for the Arts. I am a passionate lifetime supporter of the arts, always knowing that when I “grew up” I wanted to use my creativity to bring joy to other people.

I was born in Minnesota and spent my childhood in the Twin Cities. I moved to Kauai, Hawaii in 2001 and spent many great years there with my family. After finishing high school I moved to Southern California to attend the University of Redlands. I graduated with a major in Studio Arts with an emphasis in Graphic Design and a minor in Business Administration. I have been in Austin for over four years and have loved being a part of this ever-changing and ever-growing community.

My role at the AACA will cover responsibilities at both the Artworks Center and the Paramount Theatre. At the Artworks Center I will be overseeing the retail space and working with our awesome volunteers. I will also be working directly with the artists who sell their work at the Center. Along with that I will be tracking donors and their contributions, and will be managing the box office for events at the Paramount Theatre and the Artworks Center. Right now I am focusing on expanding our Volunteer Program. We are updating our online signup calendar and will focus on recruiting new members of the community. If you are interested in getting more involved please feel free to contact me at Kelsey@austinareaarts.org or call the Center at 507-434-0934.

I am very excited to be a part of the AACA family and look forward to working with the staff, volunteers and board members. We are very fortunate to have a dynamic community that supports and contributes to a full range of arts in our area. I look forward to building on those relationships and getting to know you all!

 By Kelsey Ritchie

Office Manager