Our Staff + BOARD

“I enjoy the teamwork and respect that we all have for each other here at GAC.”

Elena has been part of Guilford Art Center since 2017. She is the shop manager and coordinator of the annual HOLIDAY SHOP. Prior to becoming shop manager, she worked for a custom jewelry designer in Madison, CT. She currently lives in Guilford.

“It’s fantastic to be a part of an organization that brings joy to so many people.”

Maureen Belden has served as GAC Executive Director since 2013. Prior to that she was Program Administrator and Expo Coordinator, then Program Director, since 2005. She oversees all mission-focused initiatives, including the school, gallery, community outreach programs, and stewards fundraising to support operations and organizational expansion. She holds an MA in art history from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University, and a BA from the University of Michigan. She has served as Director of the Historical Society of Newburgh Bay & the Highlands, Curator at Storm King Art Center, as well as in curatorial positions at the St. Louis Art Museum and the Museum of Modern Art. She lives in Guilford with her husband and daughter. She is a longtime member of the Guilford Library Board of Directors, presently serving as President, and a past board member and president of the Guilford Fund for Education.

“I like being a part of a team of talented and compassionate individuals whose expertise and commitment inspire me to greater personal achievement.”

John joined the GAC team in 2016 and is known for his unfailing positivity, dedication, hard work and ability to find a creative solution for any issue. “Let’s ask John” is a common refrain around the office. He simply just makes things better at GAC, and as the only male on an all-female staff, brings a valuable perspective to the team!

“I enjoy seeing people delighting in art, whether it is students creating, instructors sharing, volunteers helping, gallery visitors observing, or shoppers browsing the GAC Shop or Craft Expo. It’s great to work for a place that is a happy place for many.”

Suzanne has been Chief Financial Officer & Operations Director since 2013. Prior to that, since 2003, she was Finance/Technology Manager and then Operations and Finance Director. She is responsible for all financial procedures and reporting and oversees the Center’s facilities and general day-to-day operations, as well as oversight of the Center’s IT functions. Hens-Kaplan holds an MBA from Sacred Heart University and a BA from the State University of New York at Albany. She has served as Business Manager at the Pine Brook (formerly Wightwood) School and has held a variety of accounting and technical support positions during her career. She lives in Madison with her husband, an overly affectionate rescue dog and an obnoxiously loud sun conure. Suzanne has enjoyed expanding her creativity by taking GAC classes in ceramics, stained glass, mosaics, and knitting.

“I love being constantly surrounded by art and creative minds in my own community.”

Ashley is a Guilford native who has been working with the Guilford Art Center since 2018, providing visitor/student services. She graduated from the University at Albany in 2017 with a BA in art history.

“I love surrounding myself with so many creative people and their artwork at GAC!”

Sue Singleton moved to Guilford from New York sixteen years ago and raised her five children here. She has worked at GAC since 2016. Her background is in textile design and illustration, but she loves to dabble in all things art!

“GAC is a place that is important to people. Of course, they come to make art and explore a creative practice. But I’ve found it is as much about the community…GAC is a place to find acceptance and support, friendship and camaraderie. I’m grateful to work for a place that has such a positive impact on people’s lives.”

Lisa joined the GAC staff in 2016 and manages all aspects of advertising, public relations and marketing communications. Prior to this, Lisa worked for Octagon, a global sports marketing agency based in Norwalk, CT. She managed corporate sponsorship programs for international sports and entertainment events, with an emphasis on the Olympic Games, and lived in Sydney, Australia and London, England. Lisa received her BA from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is now happily located in Guilford with her husband, two teenaged children and a sweet rescue dog.

“At GAC I have the opportunity to share ideas with a great group of co-workers and provide the community with art enriching experiences. There is always something new and exciting happening”

Lisa serves as the Education Coordinator, as well as a ceramic instructor. She holds a MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art, BFA from Alfred University. She has taught at RISD, Hartford Art School, Hunter College, Connecticut College, University of New Haven and Albertus Magnus College. Connecticut Artist Fellowship recipient in 2002. Wolkow exhibits nationally.