Dear Valued Friend of the Firehouse,
It is with great regret that the Firehouse Center announces the resignation of our Executive Director, Greg Smith. Anyone who has worked with Greg will not be surprised that he was recruited from us to lead a larger organization in Long Beach, California which provides free arts programming to 100,000 children each year.
“Thanks in large part to Greg's leadership, the Firehouse's quality of productions is strong and consistently growing stronger, which puts our name out there, such that our Executive Director got noticed for a more lucrative position,” Co-president Scott Smith said earlier in a message to the Board of Directors. “We're doing something right that he got sought out. Greg leaves us with a good legacy that we can further build upon.”
Co-president Ray Tiezzi further noted, “In fact, with just 190 seats in the theater, and a population base of fewer than 100,000 within 20 miles, it is challenging for the Firehouse, as a non-profit organization, to serve its diverse mission and to adequately compensate our hard-working 3 full-time staff and 3 part-time staff, all while presenting 180 events per year. Thank goodness for our committed volunteers, and for our community supporters, but it is always a challenge to keep it all going.”
“It was a very difficult decision, but an offer I could not refuse.” Greg said. “My wife Holly and I have felt very welcome here in Newburyport, and will miss the community and the Firehouse, but know the organization is in good hands with current board, staff, and members/patrons.”
Greg has offered us an 8 week transition period, prior to his departure, for which we are most grateful. We are so sorry to see Greg go, but understand and respect his decision. We wish him all the best and we ask that you do the same.
A search process for the next Executive Director will be formed quickly, with more details to follow within a couple of weeks.
Most sincerely,
Scott Smith and Ray Tiezzi
Co-Presidents of the Board
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