EAC names director, outreach coordinator

Eastport Arts Center (EAC) is pleased to announce the appointment of a new director and education and outreach coordinator. Lura Jackson will serve as the arts center’s director and Danielle Metta will provide education and outreach services to the greater community, with both already acting in their new respective capacities.

Jackson grew up in Eastport and is a graduate of Shead High School; she completed additional studies at Washington County Community College (WCCC), St. Joseph’s College, and the University of Maine to obtain a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. She has been a part of the editorial and leadership team of several area institutions, including The Quoddy Tides, Tides Institute & Museum of Art, St. Croix Historical Society and more. She is the author of three nonfiction books, two of which were produced in collaboration with local historical societies, and is the editor of several others.

“Having grown up in this community, I was fortunate to become involved in the arts at an early age thanks to exposure provided by Stage East and the teaching efforts of the many wonderful artists and musicians who call this place home,” Jackson says. “Today, I am beyond thrilled to be working with the highly experienced and capable Board of Directors at EAC as we move forward into a new era of artistic connection for the greater region.”

Metta comes from a background in education and networking with recent experience as an educational technician at Washington Academy and Princeton Elementary School with arts classes and activities incorporated in her roles. Prior to that, she managed a retail boutique store based in Calais featuring work by area artisans. She completed her Associate’s degree in Education at WCCC and is working toward her Bachelor’s degree in Education through Western Governors University. Metta will guide the EAC's arts outreach efforts in area elementary schools and organize workshops to provide arts enrichment for all ages.

“We’re thrilled to have both Lura and Danielle in these positions and look forward to the impact they will make,” says Jude Kempe, President of the Board of Directors at EAC. “Please join us in congratulating them and offering your support as they step into their new roles.”