The Board of Directors of the Whallonsburg Grange Hall and Whitcomb’s Arts are pleased to announce the appointment of Susan Granfors to the position of Executive Director, effective April 14, 2025. This new position is made possible through community donations and a Generous Acts Grant from the Adirondack Foundation.
Since the revival and restoration of the Whallonsburg Grange Hall, its diverse programs and events have expanded with the efforts of many volunteers and bring audiences from around the North Country through its doors. With the opening of the Whitcomb’s Arts building in 2021, across the street from the Grange, .an art gallery, small community and performance space, artisan workshops, and gardens were added to this arts and community center in Essex.
“Bringing on an Executive Director allows us to increase community outreach, engage new volunteers, expand our engagement with donors, and strengthen partnerships with community organizations,” said Kathryn Reinhardt, president of the board. “Susan has a talent for community connection and collaboration and most of all, brings tremendous enthusiasm for the varied programs and events at the Grange and Whitcomb’s.”
Retiring Grange Manager and longtime volunteer Mary-Nell Bockman explained, “We have relied on the Adirondack Foundation’s support for years. The Generous Acts Grant is critical to this important step forward for the Grange and underscores the Foundation’s commitment to our communities.”
Granfors, a resident of Westport, has a wealth of experience in the arts and as a community volunteer. She currently serves on the board of the Essex County Arts Council and was House Manager for the Depot Theatre in 2024. She is also a textile artist and has exhibited at Lake Placid Center for the Arts, Ti Arts and Whitcomb’s Gallery.
“I am excited to join the Whallonsburg Grange Hall and Whitcomb’s Arts family and help guide us into the future,” said Granfors. She and her husband, Bob, have two grown children, and a therapy dog, Bo, who she shares with children and adults.