Hermitage Artist Retreat hires new development director

The Hermitage Artist Retreat, the arts incubator located on Manasota Key, has hired Melanie Vadzemnieks as its development director following a national search. 

Vadzemnieks joins the Hermitage from Erie Art Museum in Erie, Pennsylvania, where she served as development director. Prior to that role, Vadzemnieks was responsible for donor relations and special events at her alma mater Gannon University, where she earned an undergraduate degree in communication arts and theater. 

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She also holds a master's degree in theater history, literature and criticism from the University of Pittsburgh. All told, Vadzemnieks has 20 years worth of experience in fundraising, grant writing and donor relations.

“Melanie brings a unique skillset to the Hermitage with her extensive leadership experience and a wide array of skills across previous development roles," said Hermitage Artistic Director and CEO Andy Sandberg in a statement. "I have no doubt she will be an invaluable addition to our already extraordinary team, and we look forward to introducing her to the Hermitage community.“

In addition to Sandberg and Vadzemnieks, the Hermitage's management team includes Managing Director Stacia Lee and Operations and Facilities Manager Dave Newman. 

“I am honored to join the extraordinary team at the Hermitage Artist Retreat,” said Vadzemnieks in a statement. “The growth and reach of the organization under Andy’s leadership is deeply impressive, and the dedication and enthusiasm that these professionals have for the work is unmatched. As I make Florida my new home, I look forward to celebrating the brilliant work of so many Hermitage artists from around the world.”

For more than two decades, the Hermitage has hosted artists across multiple disciplines for residencies on its beachfront campus, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. 

In exchange, Hermitage Fellows hold performances and conversations with the community, both on Hermitage Beach and in downtown Sarasota locations such as Marie Selby Botanical Gardens and the lawn at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Center. 

Among the Hermitage Fellows are 18 Pulitzer Prize winners, Poets Laureate, MacArthur "Genius" Fellows as well as multiple Tony, Emmy, Grammy, Oscar winners and nominees.