The Center for Arts at the Armory has announced a new leadership team. Stephanie Scherpf joined the organization in September 2019 as Executive Director, and Joe Botsch has recently joined as Operations Manager. These appointments are a key part of the transition following the January announcement that Executive Director Lea Ruscio would be stepping down effective November 30, 2019.

Since announcing her departure, Ruscio has worked closely with an Advisory Committee to create and implement a transition plan to ensure continued, seamless operation of the Arts at the Armory organization and activities.

Ms. Ruscio started at the Armory in September 2012, becoming Interim Executive Director in January 2013 and Executive Director in January 2014. She has made significant contributions to Arts at the Armory, establishing the Center as an essential part of the community. This vital and adaptable facility has grown to enable arts and community organizations from Somerville, Cambridge, Boston and beyond to showcase their achievements and bring people together.

“There is a part of my heart that will always be with the Armory here in Somerville. It’s been an incredible experience to work with so many great events and performances through the years – the creativity in Somerville and the surrounding communities is simply amazing. Though the ‘face’ of the Armory is changing in this transition, there’s a talented and dedicated team carrying on here and I’m excited to see the Armory continue to grow and realize its potential,” says Ms. Ruscio.

Stephanie Scherpf comes to Arts at the Armory having made a career in arts non-profit leadership in both startup and institutional settings in the U.S. and abroad. “The local support for Arts at the Armory from the Somerville community is notable. I am looking forward to securing and building upon the platform Lea has created to ensure that the Armory continues to serve Greater Boston and beyond as an accessible and inclusive venue for arts, cultural and community events and programming long into the future,” says Ms. Scherpf.

Joe Botsch is a Somerville resident who has been an Operations Manager and Event Manager for 10 years, most recently serving at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston. An event recognizing Lea Ruscio was held in the Armory Performance Hall on Friday, November 1.