The Smith Center for the Arts is celebrating a standout year, thanking its community, supporters, and board members for helping make 2024 one of the most successful years in the organization’s history. The accomplishments were highlighted during the “State of the Smith” event on November 19.
At the event, Executive Director Susie Monagan and Board Co-Chair Kelby Russell presented the draft 2024 Annual Report, detailing a year of historic growth and operational progress. Monagan noted that Smith surpassed $1 million in revenue for the first time, totaling $1,212,975 — a 50 percent increase over 2023. Earned income, including ticket and concession sales, rose by 40 percent over the previous year.
The visuals in the report demonstrated strong financial stewardship. Graph A, covering revenue sources, illustrated the balance between earned and donated income, with donated support seeing a modest increase from 2023. Graph B outlined expenses, showing a reduced share of spending on management and general costs — down 5 percent — ensuring more resources go directly toward programming and operations. Monagan emphasized that these gains reinforce the Smith’s mission to engage the Finger Lakes community through performances, events, and cultural celebrations while preserving its 131-year-old historic opera house.
Before the State of the Smith presentation, the organization held its Annual Board Meeting. Officers elected were: Rebecca Burditt and Kelby Russell (Co-Chairs), Shanelle France (Vice-Chair), Sarah Tuttle (Secretary), and Paul Perrotto (Treasurer). The Smith also welcomed two new board members, Hank Pierson and Joe McHale, who joined the leadership team as the organization heads into another promising year.
Have all the Finger Lakes news from Finger Lakes News Radio delivered to your email every morning for FREE! Sign up by clicking here
