UTICA — Local artist and businesswoman Angela Johnson DeCarlis was recently elected President of the Board of Directors of UMN (Utica Monday Nite) For the Arts, the non-profit organization announced. She will serve a three-year term.

DeCarlis is a well-known and highly respected painter and accomplished muralist who has been active in the local arts community for many years. An accredited life coach and consultant, she is the owner of Be. Life, Art, Magic located in Utica. She holds degrees in Fine Arts, Business Management, and Business Administration. 

“I’m honored that I have an opportunity to lead an organization with such a rich history, and one that has contributed so much culturally to our area over the past 25 years,” DeCarlis said. “The board is committed to supporting and promoting arts and culture in the region, especially recognizing the positive community impacts and considerable economic benefits they provide.” 

The Board of Directors also announced the addition of two new members: Michelle Klosek, owner of several Varick Street clubs and arts and entertainment venues, and Jennifer Quinn, a marketing executive with Galaxy Communications. Both will serve two-year terms. 

The board also voted to extend by one year the terms of officers Alejandro Gonzalez, Vice President; Amy Creedon, Treasurer; and Richard Barrett, Secretary,  all of whom have served two-year terms. Former president Alyssa Spina continues to serve on the board, along with founder and honorary member, Lynne Mishelanie.

As part of its 25 year anniversary celebration, UMN For the Arts, in partnership with MVCC and ThINCubator, will launch an intensive 8-week Artist Refinery Program beginning May 25.  The organization received a grant from M&T Bank to fund part of the program. Additionally, The Levitt AMP Utica summer concert series, of which UMNFTA is a sponsor, begins June 20 at Kopernick Park.

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Currently celebrating its 25th anniversary, UMN (Utica Monday Nite) For The Arts is the brainchild of founder Lynne Mishelanie, whose passion for shining a light on the brilliance of the community’s arts created an enduring legacy of economic benefit and civic pride. Continuing to provide the community with a broad spectrum of artistic experiences, its primary purpose is to act as advocates and activists in support of the arts, and in recognition of their valuable contributions to the region’s quality of life. The non-profit organization currently serves as fiscal sponsor for the Levitt AMP Utica summer concert series. For more information, contact [email protected] (currently under construction) or visit facebook.com/Utica-Monday-Nite