McGroarty Arts Center welcomed Candace Sorensen to the center as its new executive director. Sorensen has over 30 years experience in the non-profit sector including managing director of the Maryland Shakespeare Festival, executive director of ALSO Out Youth (a social service organization for at-risk teens in Sarasota, Fla.), executive director of Theatre Charlotte, director of Arts Education for Spirit Square Center for Arts and Education and Arts Education coordinator for Henry Street Settlement.

She holds a BFA in drama education and an MFA in theatre for young audiences from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a successful fundraiser, grant writer and arts programmer. During her career, she has run capital and endowment campaigns, helped to create strategic plans and consulted with arts councils, school districts and arts organizations of all disciples to increase funding and launch programs. Sorensen is a passionate arts and education advocate, with extensive knowledge in dealing with communities, businesses, and the arts.

Sorensen has been with McGroarty for about four months and has worked to create new classes, structured a successful annual fundraiser, Sweet Talk, met with local officials and organizations, and developed relationships with current instructors and students.

For more information about classes, performances, rental availability, and upcoming events, contact monica@mcgroartyartscenter.org. Visit the website www.mcgroartyartscenter.org.