Press Release: First Friday Scranton Announces New Executive Director

First Friday Scranton, a local, private non-profit community arts organization that hosts monthly art walks and supports local artistic initiatives, has named Andrea Talarico as Executive Director. Talarico succeeds Lisa Sauder, who recently stepped down from the position due to her family’s relocation out-of-state.
As the former managing partner of Anthology Books in downtown Scranton, Talarico has been working with First Friday for several years coordinating artists and venues.  In addition, she has is very active in downtown and community initiatives such as First Night Scranton, the Downtown Scranton Business Association and “Independents Week”, a national buy-local campaign.
”We strongly believe that Ms. Talarico possesses the interpersonal and leadership qualities necessary to lead First Friday Scranton, partner with the board and make strong connections within our community,” said Jack Reager, First Friday Scranton Board president. “I have complete confidence in Ms. Talarico’s ability to lead First Friday in fulfilling its mission to the community and achieving our shared vision for its future.”
Ms. Talarico lives in Scranton with her fiancé and is pursuing her degree in English Literature and Spanish at the University of Scranton.  As First Friday Scranton’s Executive Director, Talarico will be responsible for strategic direction for programming as well as fundraising initiatives, special events, financial targets and cultivating community and business partnerships.