The Board of Directors of the Deane Center for the Performing Arts at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro is pleased to announce the appointment of Dawn Kennedy-McLelland as the new director of Development & Operations.  

A passionate advocate for the performing arts with extensive experience in nonprofit leadership and arts education, Dawn brings a dynamic blend of creativity, strategic vision, and administrative expertise to the organization.  

Dawn is known throughout the community for her dedication to the performing arts. She served as a former owner, instructor, and administrative director of First Position Dance Studio in Wellsboro, where she oversaw both the artistic programming and daily operations of the studio, cultivating a strong community of students and families. Dawn is passionate about empowering youth through the arts.

In addition to her work in dance, Dawn is a member of the Hamilton-Gibson Productions Board of Directors where she serves as treasurer and is an active participant in productions as an actor and occasionally as a director. 

Beyond the arts, Dawn has worked as a payroll, bookkeeping and financial specialist for various local businesses, bringing a strong background in financial systems and small business support.

As the director of Development & Operations, Dawn will lead the Deane Center’s fundraising strategy, community partnerships, donor relations, and facility operations, including booking bands and other entertainers to perform in the Coolidge Theatre or on the outdoor stage, selling event tickets, and renting rooms for small business meetings and conferences to proms, birthday parties or large wedding receptions.

“I am honored to be part of the future of the Deane Center for the Performing Arts and am looking forward to building connections that bring people together through the arts,” Dawn said.

Her first official day in the office is next Monday, July 28.

For a schedule of upcoming concerts and other events at the Deane Center, visit www.deanecenter.com.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Dawn at the office by calling 570-724-6220 or emailing her at director@deanecenter.com.