If Pewabic was a person, Al Roker would be celebrating their 112th birthday on the Today show. There won’t be Al Roker, but there will be good times on Saturday, March 14.
Pewabic, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making ceramics accessible and relevant (as well as makes some amazing artwork), is hosting a birthday party to celebrate its 112th year and to welcome new Executive Director Steve McBride.
McBride comes to Pewabic with an extensive skill set. He served as Director of Annual Giving at Interlochen Center for the Arts. There, he led the yearly fundraising efforts for the organization.
However, McBride’s experience goes beyond fundraising. He was also Regional Marketing and Communications Manager at Interlochen. In this position, he served as a liaison and organizational spokesman for regional arts and cultural organizations.
Pewabic’s Board Chair Corey Scillian led the organization’s search for an Executive Director, assisted by a committee of stakeholders.
“We are excited to have Steve join the Pewabic community,” said Scillian. “He is coming to us from another prestigious Michigan organization with a strong background in marketing and development. And, as a one time studio potter, Steve shares our passion for ceramics which makes him the perfect fit for Pewabic.”
Pewabic has seen impressive growth recently. Under the direction of Heather Simmet and Christina Devlin, Pewabic enjoyed record attendance at two of its hallmark events, Raku Party and For the House & Garden Show Preview Fundraiser.
In addition to its growth, the organization has begun the process of revamping its brand, debuting a new mission statement, logo, and website. The organization’s efforts paid off. It achieved a record fiscal year, paving the way for Steve McBride’s joining as Executive Director.
McBride displayed great excitement to be part of Pewabic’s unique history. “I’m thrilled to be joining an organization with such a rich artistic legacy. I am excited to explore the creative energy of Detroit, and I am honoured by the opportunity to help guide Pewabic as we look to the next 112 years.”
Pewabic is equally enthusiastic about McBride’s position within the organization.
Christina Devlin, Pewabic’s Interim Chief Administrative Officer, said “With many exciting projects and events on the horizon, we are thrilled to welcome Steve McBride to our creative community as Executive Director. We invite the public to join us in welcoming Steve and to celebrate Pewabic’s incredible achievements over the last year. In a new year, with new leadership, we look forward to continued success.”
Pewabic encourages Detroiters to join them at the organization’s 112th birthday party on Saturday, March 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to meet McBride and enjoy birthday cake, live demonstrations by Pewabic artisans, and docent-led tours of the National Historic Landmark building at 12 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.
For more information, check out the event on Facebook.
