It’s not every day that you get two announcements from two non-profits about changes in personnel, but today was such a day. Within one minute this morning, TACA Board Chair Michael Meadows and the Dallas Symphony Orchestra each sent word heralding TACA President/Executive Director Terry Loftis’ change of professional scenery.
Michael reported that after heading up the arts funding organization for three years, Terry would be moving down Flora Street to take a new position with the DSO. Replacing him would be TACA Deputy Development Director Maura Sheffler as interim president/executive director.
In a letter to the TACA family, Michael said, “Terry has been responsible for significant growth for TACA during his tenure as leader of our organization. His leadership and conception of new programming at an especially critical time provided a tremendous boost to arts organizations in our city. On behalf of our board, I wish him well in his new role.”
Regarding Maura’s being named as his interim replacement, Terry said, “Maura understands TACA, our mission, and programming better than anyone, and I’m thrilled to pass the baton to her as she takes on the new role. In the past three years, I’ve relied on her extensively for her knowledge of the arts and cultural landscape. She is an extraordinary connector and friend, and I look forward to continuing to work with Maura and TACA in my new DSO role.”
Only a moment before, the DSO had sent news that Terry was being named to the symphony’s newly created role of Chief Advancement and Revenue Officer.
DSO President/CEO Kim Noltemy commented, “I have gotten to know Terry during my time in Dallas, and I am thrilled that he will be joining the DSO. With his incredible background in both fundraising and marketing, I know he will be a valuable asset to the organization.”
The timing of the issuance of the news and the comments indicated that the transition was indeed amicable and seamless.
Terry and Maura officially start their new duties on Thursday, December 1.
Michael Meadows says
Jeanne: Thanks so much for the coverage. Yes, this transition is completely amicable and all of us wish Terry and Maura much success in their new roles. After all, the Dallas arts community will be the ultimate beneficiary of their success.