MARBLEHEAD — The Marblehead Festival of Arts, or MFoA, selected marketing strategist and podcast host Jodi-Tatiana Charles as its 2023 President.
Her selection as president comes alongside the organization’s announcement of four new directors, who will help support the festival’s work to highlight art as a tool for cultural exchange, education, and expression, according to a MFoA press release. The four new directors are Kirsten Bassion, Molly Flynn, Alison Spring, and Amy Thompson. Charles said she is excited about the organization’s new leadership and would like to expand the festival.
“We have to work every day to keep delivering a top-quality festival for our residents and neighboring towns and guests,” Charles said in the release. “My goal is to bring back the community of residents that have not attended the event in years, and attract a wider age group with new activities, all while staying true to the core values of the arts.”
Since 1962, the MFoA has hosted fundraisers and seasonal events including the annual Summer Festival of Arts. The signature four-day summer festival includes an array of cultural activities, art exhibits, concerts, and film festivals, each designed to provide an exciting experience for Marblehead families.
After identifying potential presidential candidates throughout the summer, the organization’s Nominating Committee ultimately recommended Charles. MFoA members then unanimously elected Charles at the organization’s annual meeting, according to committee chairman Eric Knight.—
A 13-year Marblehead resident, Charles has volunteered for the festival for over a decade. As a small business advocate, she is the founder of LCG Brands Consulting and hosts the “Minding Your Business” podcast.
With 30 years of executive leadership in marketing, branding, and communication under her belt, the release said Charles is looking to harness those skills to fulfill her obligations as MFoA president.
The release went on to add that Charles is passionate about serving her community and spends her free time supporting causes that benefit children, the elderly, and cancer research.
“Ms. Charles is an experienced business marketing strategist and multi-platform communicator, who exhibits the creative energy and enthusiasm the committee believes is necessary for continuing the growth and innovation of the MFoA,” Knight said in the release. “She also shares the MFoA’s core belief that support of the arts helps create and sustain a healthy and vibrant community. Wte wish Ms. Charles, the officers and members of the MFoA’s Board of Directors a productive and successful year.”