Daisy McGowan to succeed Jennifer Olson as the organization’s new leader.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Denver, CO, December 1, 2022 – Think 360 Arts for Learning (Think 360), a national leader in arts education has selected a new executive director to succeed outgoing executive director, Jennifer Olson. Daisy McGowan will be joining the Think 360 team on January 3, 2023, as the organization celebrates its 60th anniversary. Olson will stay on through January to assist Think 360’s board and staff with McGowan’s transition.
“Jen has done a tremendous amount for Think 360 in her tenure, transforming the organization into what it is today. Her tenacity, dedication, leadership, and huge heart will be greatly missed. After a community focused, hiring process we are thrilled to have Daisy join the Think 360 team. She has the experience, knowledge, and value alignment to continue to grow and expand upon what Jen and the team have built,” said Molly Bird Casey, Think 360’s board chairperson.
McGowan will be stepping down as director for the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs (UCCS) Galleries of Contemporary Art from 2010-2022, where she led the program through a period of tremendous growth and impact on the entire Rocky Mountain west region. During her tenure, McGowan oversaw the diversification of the artistic program, expanded engagement with the community, and ambitiously grew digital platforms to increase access to arts learning for all. She independently and collaboratively curated and produced over 100 exhibitions and designed and built arts education programs for all ages at UCCS, Colorado College (IDEA Space Colorado College and Coburn Gallery), and at multiple regional and national sites.
“I am deeply honored to take on the role of Executive Director for Think 360 Arts for Learning. Think 360 Arts’ vision for broad access to the transformative benefit of world-class arts education resonates strongly with my work in providing equitable access to the arts for all and to support artists. I am excited to build on the strong foundation created by outgoing director Jennifer Olson for this nearly 60-year-old non-profit organization, and to continue the important work of building strong communities through equitable access to arts learning state-wide,” commented McGowan.
Daisy McGowan was awarded her Bachelor of Studio Art from Colorado College and Master of Public Affairs, with a focus on arts administration, from the University of Colorado. As an educator, she has taught at the university level for nearly twenty years including studio art and museum studies and gallery practice, as well as working as a K-5 arts educator. McGowan is a frequent speaker and published author on the topics of contemporary art and art economics. She was born in Italy and raised internationally and across the U.S. by artists. She currently lives with her family in Denver, Colorado.
About Think 360 Arts for Learning:
Think 360 Arts is a leading provider of arts education programs and services in Colorado. Think 360 Arts serves Coloradans of all ages through teaching artist workshops and residencies, direct services in the classroom, teacher training, professional development, early childhood education, and community programs. Through our work, Think 360 Arts is committed to ensuring all communities can experience the transformative benefits of arts education. Think 360 Arts is an independent affiliate of Young Audiences and an affiliate of Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts. For more information, please visit www.think360arts.org.
Contact: Juliana Fajardo
Email: juliana@think360arts.org