Rush Philanthropic
Arts Foundation executives Ellen Haddigan and Tangie Murray have been named
as the organization’s new board president and managing director.
The appointment
was made Thursday (June 29) by foundation chairman Russell Simmons and vice
chairman Danny Simmons, who welcomed Haddigan’s vision as board president.
"Ellen has
been crucial to the growth of this organization," said Danny Simmons. "Under
her stewardship, we have seen development of a loyal group of sponsors, and
the overall strengthening of our internal operations."
CO-founded 11
years ago by Russell Simmons, Danny Simmons and Joseph "Rev. Run"
Simmons, the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation provides arts education and
access to under privileged NYC youth, as well as exposure and exhibition opportunities
to emerging artists and artists of color.
Under Haddigan’s
six-year tenure as executive director, the organization has grown to include
exhibitions and mentoring initiatives in New York City and Palm Beach County.
The Rush Community Grants Program annually provides direct funding to more than
70 nonprofit organizations.
"I am honored
to continue my service to Rush Philanthropic as president of the board. There’s
a bright future ahead for the Foundation with a fantastic team and many new
initiatives," said Haddigan, who was recently named director of development
for the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago.
A former assistant
executive director, Murray has been with the Foundation since 2003 as director
of marketing and special events. During that time, she led the organization’s
fundraising efforts with the Art For Life East Hampton and Art For Life Palm
Beach benefit galas.
The events raised
more than $2 million last year.
"I am thrilled
to become managing director of this organization I’ve come to love these past
few years," said Murray, a University of California, Los Angeles graduate.
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with Russell and Danny, and look forward
to leading the organization into a bright future."
Russell Simmons
predicts Murray will take the Foundation to the next level.
"For the
past several years Tangie has been a key player in Rush Philanthropic and we
are happy to be able to formally recognize her vital role on the staff by promoting
her to managing director," he said.