On Our Minds
ArtsCom NYC is a professional organization for senior marketing and communications leaders working for 85 nonprofit arts organizations in New York City.
On-Ramps’ 2024 industry report found that ArtsCom members responded more favourably than other respondents in certain key areas regarding their wellbeing and sense of belonging. So we turned to Mary Trudel and Toby Usnik, ArtsCom’s founders, to share how they have fostered such a positive environment for their members. Here’s what they shared with us.
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At ArtsCom NYC, we’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of peer-driven support, connection, and professional development. The network we’ve built is a vital resource for overcoming challenges, staying motivated, and fostering a deep sense of belonging in a demanding sector.
As we look to the future, we continue to refine the ways in which we support our members. Here are a few things that have worked well for us along the way.
Leveraging shared context for immediate impact
Having access to a reliable, peer-driven support network is essential for senior leaders. And what truly makes ArtsCom so effective is our focused structure: all members are in the same geographic region (NYC), represent similar institutions (arts-oriented nonprofits), and hold the same type of leadership role (marketing and communications).
This shared context creates a level of immediacy and relevance that senior leaders value. Members operate within the same political and funding climate, which means they face many of the same challenges at the same time. As a result, they can quickly exchange insights and advice that is both actionable and deeply relevant to their specific needs, enabling them to take informed action when it matters most.
Creating a culture of belonging and reciprocity
ArtsCom's membership spans a range of experiences, backgrounds, and ages, which creates a dynamic space for mutual learning and support. New members benefit from the insights of more seasoned leaders, while veteran members gain fresh perspectives on emerging trends or challenges. This exchange fosters a strong sense of belonging—everyone feels valued, regardless of the size of their institution or how long they've been in the role.
One of our long-time members, Anne Canty of the American Museum of Natural History, put it perfectly: ArtsCom evokes a "generosity of spirit" that makes newcomers feel instantly welcomed. When someone joins the network, they immediately gain a community of colleagues who act like old friends. This camaraderie creates a sense of home in an otherwise fast-paced, high-pressure environment. At the same time, there’s a deep sense of reciprocity within the group: members take initiative to contribute actively, whether it’s hosting a gathering or sharing a new idea. This empowers members and gives them agency, which is essential for feeling connected.
Supporting well-being through shared purpose
We recognize the deep passion that drives our members' work. They are not motivated by financial gain, but by a love for the arts and a commitment to their mission. This shared sense of purpose is central to the work we do together. We offer professional development opportunities like retreats, workshops, and DEIA initiatives, but perhaps most importantly, we provide a space for leaders to connect emotionally.
Knowing they are part of a network that truly cares about their challenges—both personal and professional—helps senior leaders feel supported and recharged. It enables them to keep doing the work they love, with renewed focus and resilience. This moral support is as crucial as professional development, ensuring our members remain effective and inspired in their leadership.
Empowering leaders to overcome external challenges
ArtsCom provides senior leaders with a vital support system during challenging times, helping them navigate political pressures, sector-specific issues, and internal crises. The network creates a space for open sharing, where leaders can connect with peers who are facing similar struggles. This collective wisdom fosters a sense of solidarity, reminding members that they are not alone.
In times of external stress, such as financial constraints or political scrutiny, ArtsCom offers both swift, practical advice and emotional support. By drawing on the experiences of others in the network, leaders stay motivated and grounded, knowing they have a community to lean on. This combination of shared insight and peer support helps members continue to lead with confidence, even during the most difficult moments.
Maintaining a principled approach
Finally, we’d like to share some practices that have shaped the foundation of our community and continue to ensure that we stay relevant, responsive, and effective in meeting the needs of our members. These five core strategies have been essential in fostering a strong, resilient network of leaders in the arts:
- Start small and keep it authentic. ArtsCom began with just five core members and grew organically from there. This approach has helped us maintain a close-knit community where each member is valued, and the relationships stay genuine.
- Break down discipline silos. Our members come from all corners of the arts world, from performing arts to visual arts to education, which keeps the network dynamic.
- Keep things confidential. ArtsCom operates under Chatham House Rules, so members can comfortably have the candid conversations that drive progress.
- Stay current. We focus on addressing today's pressing issues and ensuring our network is relevant to the immediate realities and challenges that current leaders are facing.
- Stay inclusive. ArtsCom doesn’t charge dues, making it accessible to institutions of all sizes. Every leader, regardless of their organization's budget, can be part of this community, ensuring a wide range of voices and perspectives are heard.
The Takeaway
In a sector driven by passion and purpose, strong leadership networks are not just nice-to-have—they’re a necessity. These key practices have enabled us to build a thriving, resilient community that helps leaders navigate challenges and stay motivated in the long run.
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On-Ramps is a search and consulting firm that serves mission-driven organizations in the social sector. We are deeply committed to helping create diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplaces. Together with our clients, we thoughtfully consider and address these topics throughout every step in our process.
Ready to learn more about our services or discuss your hiring needs? Reach out to Michelle Kedem at info@on-ramps.com or 212-924-3434.
