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Effective January 1: Masks are Optional in VisArts’ Classrooms and Studios
ROCKVILLE, Md., April 15, 2025 – VisArts, a nonprofit arts hub and incubator in Rockville, Maryland, is pleased to announce Lisa Marie Ryder as CEO, succeeding retiring CEO Alice Nappy. Following an extensive national search led by Good Insight, Ryder begins her new role on May 27. In the interim, nonprofit leader Heller An Shapiro is guiding the arts organization’s programming.
As the only organization in the region focused exclusively on transforming individuals and communities through the visual arts and the largest employer of visual artists in Montgomery County, Maryland, VisArts offers a wide range of programs for artists of all ages and abilities.
“Lisa Marie’s experience and passion for arts and cultural programming will be a tremendous asset to VisArts,” said Bob Elliott, who co-chaired VisArts’ Board Search Committee, along with fellow board member Anand Vaishnav. “As we approach 40 years of enriching lives through the arts, I’m confident Lisa Marie has the vision to expand and strengthen our contributions.”
“VisArts provides unique value, both to artists and the wider community,” said Ryder. “I’m thrilled to work with the talented instructors, board members, and arts supporters who are drawn to and co-create the special environment that is VisArts. Together, we’ll foster creativity and further advance VisArts’ mission of social impact, strengthening the fabric of our community.”
Interim CEO Shapiro is an executive coach and nonprofit management specialist. She previously served as executive director of the inclusive theater nonprofit ArtStream. In 2024, Shapiro led a board development project for VisArts and is currently a ceramics student at the organization.
“We’re incredibly fortunate to access the talents of Heller An, a great friend to VisArts who has provided expert guidance on our most recent strategic planning initiatives,” said Sonal Verma, VisArts board president.
About Lisa Marie Ryder
Lisa Marie Ryder brings an extensive arts background and expertise in nonprofit management, museum education, and community engagement. She comes to VisArts from the Claggett Center, a multigenerational camp and conference facility, where, as co-executive director, she led operations, strategic planning, and financial growth, including a $5 million capital campaign and diversity initiatives.
Ryder’s past roles include directing the Alabama Folk School and Camp Latgawa, where she expanded programs and increased community engagement. She also held leadership positions at the National Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C., enhancing outreach and visitor experiences. She worked in education at The Phillips Collection, developing programs that connect diverse audiences with art through literacy.
She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Museum Education from The George Washington University and a Bachelor of Arts in Art from Eureka College.
