Job Opening – JAM, Inc Executive Director
Note from the Director
Friends and Colleagues,
It is with a mixture of emotions that I would like to let you know that the time has come for me to retire from the position of Executive Director of Junior Appalachian Musicians, Inc. I will be leaving at the end of May, but will remain involved as a consultant and contractor for education and outreach initiatives as needed. We are at a good point for a transition – the guides/templates/policies and website will be in good working order, and we have a hint of a financial cushion with which to welcome a new executive director. As well, we have a good board of directors, and a dynamite program director (Brett Morris Martin) and book keeper (Betty Lee Sturdivant) in place.
My goal when starting JAM in Alleghany County (NC) Schools was to develop things sufficiently that ultimately someone else could take over, sustain and enhance the vision. Little did I know 13 years ago that our little Sparta program would develop into a regional model – now serving close to 1000 kids in 3 states (with inquiries from 3 others..). JAM, Inc is now ready for an ambitious, well organized administrator who can guide the organization to a new level of outreach and sustainability.
I want to thank each of you for the support and encouragement you have given me in bringing JAM this far and I look forward to that support continuing as we help a new director bring further to life the ambitious vision that “All mountain children in the Southern Appalachians have access to the joy of participation in the music of their heritage.” JAM is an important program whose time arrived. I have watched transformations of children, families and communities as they have become involved – far beyond just learning some simple tunes. I was privileged to have been charged with JAM’s early development and I now look forward to watching its growth and evolution.
-Helen White