NEWS & EVENTS

You made this possible.

The first day of NYC public schools is just weeks away, and we are preparing for the big year ahead with our dynamic staff! As our programming expands, our team is not only growing in size, but also into new roles. That growth is only possible because of you.

After 5 years serving as Opening Act’s Director of Programs, the phenomenal Cathleen Carr is moving onto her next great adventure with her family in New England. Our very own Marcus D. Johnson will be leading the Programs Team as Interim Director of Programs.  

In addition, we are thrilled to introduce (or reintroduce!) these amazing individuals to you:

 Justin Daniel, Associate Director of After-School Programs

 Paul Gutkowski, District 79 Program Manager

 Matthew Greene, Act 2 College and Career Program Manager

 Niara Walden, Program Coordinator

 Kandace Pound, Operations and HR Manager

 Rachael Abbick, Executive Assistant

 Alex Scoolis, Development and Special Events Coordinator

We also want to share the exciting news that Suzy Myers Jackson, our fearless leader, will be taking a three-month sabbatical from Opening Act, beginning September 17. This summer marks 15 years of Suzy working at Opening Act, and she remains deeply honored to work with this extraordinary community. Suzy looks forward to returning this winter and jumping back into our critical and important work together!

In her absence, Erika Atkins, our Director of Operations and Communications, will step up to serve as Acting Executive Director, leading the organization along with Director of Development Gabrielle Gilliam.

Thank you for your continued support of Opening Act. We look forward to an incredible year ahead!  Each of you makes up an important part of the Opening Act story, and we are so grateful you’ve included us in your lives. We couldn’t do this without you.

With Love,

Suzy, Erika, and the Opening Act Team