Boston Public Library Foundation Announces a New Executive Director
Photo provided
The Boston Public Library Foundation announced Lisa Bevilaqua as its new executive director this morning. The nonprofit is a BPL affiliate that advocates for the Central Library and its 24 neighborhood branches, raising awareness and support for operations and capital projects.
“In partnership with Mayor Walsh, who has made the health and vibrancy of the BPL a priority, the Library Foundation will look to attract the kind of philanthropic and civic leadership that led to the founding of the BPL over a century and a half ago,” said Bevilaqua in a press release.
Bevilaqua is the former Director of Development at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, where she contributed to the success of a $180 million capital campaign, increased annual and event support, and worked closely with departing director Anne Hawley.
“Lisa’s dynamic understanding of development strategies, ranging from events to major gifts to government fundraising, will be incredibly useful to the Library Foundation as it works to expand its support of the BPL,” said Jeff Hawkins, chairman of the nonprofit’s board of directors.
Bevilaqua graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Boston University, received her master’s degree in nonprofit management from Brandeis University, and worked at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Medical Center, and New England Aquarium before starting at the Gardner.
“I am pleased that Lisa has agreed to take on this important role supporting the Boston Public Library and its top notch programming and services for the public to enjoy,” said Mayor Walsh.
Bevilaqua’s appointment follows a series of changes at the Boston Public Library, which appointed David Leonard, who previously oversaw administration and technology, as its interim president in June. The library’s former president Amy Ryan resigned after a high-profile case of two missing artworks unfolded under her watch. Jeffrey Rudman, chair of the library’s board of trustees, also resigned, with trustee John Hailer assuming his position in the interim.
