There’s a new face to add to the Paramount Theatre’s old history.

Jennie Germaine started as the Executive Director for the Austin Area Commission for the Arts this week, ready to help the Paramount grow as an arts institution in town.

“The arts in Austin was really important in my development,” Germaine said. “I wanted an opportunity to kind of give back to the community.”

Germaine grew up in Austin, performing with Matchbox Children’s Theatre, Summerset Theatre and Riverland Theatre during her childhood.

“It’s nice because I already know a lot of people in the arts community here,” she said.

She attended the University of Wisconsin — La Crosse after high school, eventually earning a bachelor’s degree in theatre arts and communication studies with a focus in public relations.

Germain joins the AACA after working as the Communications Coordinator for the University of Minnesota Department of Theatre Arts and Dance. Prior to that position, she worked at the U of M as the Audience Development Manager for the Department of Theatre Arts and Dance and earned a master’s degree in Arts Administration. Before moving to the Cities, she was the House Manager at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis.

She hopes to help shape the Paramount’s much-awaited expansion, as well as help secure new artists and musicians to play at the Paramount that will attract younger audiences.

“The face of Austin has definitely changed,” Germaine said. “The Paramount is in a position to really start to grow and I’m excited to be a part of that.”