SOPAC Welcomes New Director of Development

The South Orange Performing Arts Center has announced that Vivian C.R. James has assumed the position of Director of Development, where she will play a key role in institutional advancement. Ms. James, a resident of Glen Ridge, NJ was most recently the Executive Director of the Museum of Early Trades and Crafts in Madison, NJ. She is an experienced nonprofit leader who has displayed effective management, strategic planning and achievement throughout her career.

"We are thrilled that Ms. James has accepted the position. Now, more than ever, it is important for us to have a skilled fundraiser who knows how to negotiate the challenges of today's economy. We feel confident that Ms. James will take us to the next level in our development efforts," stated Executive Director Mark Packer.

As the Executive Director of the Museum of Early Trades & Crafts, she successfully raised funds to launch a $2 million major historic preservation project, among other achievements. Her fundraising career has also included positions at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, the Greater Newark Conservancy, the Communication for Social Change Consortium and the New Jersey Performing Arts Center.

Board of Governors Chairman Anthony J. Leitner noted, "The search committee was unanimous in its decision to hire Ms. James. There is no question that she will be an outstanding addition to the staff and the entire Board looks forward to working with her to achieve our goals."

She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Association of Museums and the New Jersey History Advocates, and is a reviewer for the Institute of Museum and Library Services. She holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Seton Hall University and a BFA from Fashion Institute of Technology (SUNY).

The South Orange Performing Arts Center is located at 1 SOPAC Way, South Orange, NJ 07079.