2 new directors: Nicole Herwig at Chapman; Phil Casabona LARAC

The Chapman Historical Museum has named Nicole Herwig, most recently Assistant Curator of the Hyde Collection, as its new Executive Director.

She succeeds Timothy Weidner, who retired after serving 23 years in the job.

Executive directors — Nicole Herwig, above, is the new Chapman director. Phil Casabona, below, will head LARAC.
LARAC, the Lower Adirondack Regional Arts Council, named current Gallery Curator and Festival Coordinator Phil Casabona as its Executive Director. Candice Frye stepped down on March 1.

The Chapman said it selected Ms. Herwig “after a thorough, nation-wide search over the course of two months. The search committee considered nearly two dozen candidates and interviewed finalists both virtually and in-person.”

Chapman Board chair Gloria Ragonetti was quoted, “…we are looking forward to working with Nicole Herwig as our Executive Director for many years. Her background, expertise, and experience will move the Chapman forward as it continues to follow our mission to become an integral part of the greater Glens Falls-Queensbury area.”

The press release said Ms. Herwig previously worked for the New York State Museum and the University Art Museum at UAlbany, among other positions.

A graduate of UAlbany with a Master’s in Public History, Ms. Herwig also holds undergrad degrees in Advertising Design, Art, and Art History.

She lives in Saratoga Springs with her husband, Mark, a Queensbury native, three children and three dogs, said the museum. “She enjoys cooking (and eating), gardening, fishing, and home improvement projects in her spare time.”

LARAC said Mr. Casabona has worked there since July 2014. He has been in charge of both the June and the Fall Arts Festivals, the gift shop and annual Holiday Shop, and has organized seven exhibitions yearly in the Lapham Gallery.

“Phil has been an integral piece of LARAC for years, and brings essential skills and intense passion to continue the work of LARAC,” board and search committee chair Will Sawma was quoted. “We are lucky to have Phil to work with as LARAC heads into the future.”

Mr. Casabona is an artist himself, with a BFA. He is currently Vice President of North Country Arts. He lives in Glens Falls with his wife, Hyla Kaye-Casabona.

He is quoted in the press release, “I have felt at home here at LARAC these past eight years and have been humbled by the constant support of the local artists and community. I am looking forward to continuing to do my best for LARAC, the artists we support and who support us, as well as the community as LARAC’s new Executive Director. I intend to build upon the wonderful foundation that has been laid these past 50 years.”

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