HAGERSTOWN, MD – The Washington County Arts Council (WCAC) Board of Directors announced today that Kathyrn Gratton has been appointed Interim Executive Director, effective immediately. Gratton assumes leadership following the departure of Nicole Abuhamada, whose last day was October 10, 2025.

"I'm excited to dust off my nonprofit executive experience and put it to use to help this organization during this period of transition," said Gratton. "The arts have always held a special place in my heart, and I am excited to be a part of seeing where the organization will go in the coming months."

Gratton brings extensive nonprofit and arts management experience to the role, having previously served as Executive Director of the Arts Alliance of Greater Waynesboro from 2018-2019, where she increased fundraising and grants by 15% and designed new Arts and STEAM programming partnerships with local schools. She is the owner of Red Lips Mentor, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in nonprofit management, marketing, and grant writing for both municipalities and nonprofit organizations throughout the region.

Her community involvement includes serving on the boards of the WRGG Radio, the Washington County Historical Society, and Cumberland Valley School of Music, as well as being a Leadership Franklin County graduate. Gratton holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is a Certified Small Business Mentor through the Small Business Administration.

WCAC Continues Robust Programming During Transition

The Arts Council maintains full operations with several exhibitions currently on display and major events on the horizon:

Current Exhibitions:

• Judith Peck – Through December 2nd
• George T. Owens – Through December 2nd
• David Buckley – Featured at Washington County Chamber of Commerce through October

Upcoming Highlights:

• Annual Community Art Show (December) – WCAC is currently accepting submissions for this beloved community showcase. Artists should contact Gallery Manager Chris Brewer for submission details.
• New Website Launch – An enhanced digital experience coming soon to better serve artists, patrons, and the community
• 16th Annual Art of Cooking (January 31, 2026) – WCAC's signature fundraising event celebrating the intersection of culinary and visual arts. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

"The Board is confident in Kathyrn's leadership during this transitional period," said Arthur Schneider, President of WCAC's Board of Directors. "Her experience in arts administration and deep community connections make her ideally suited to maintain our momentum while we conduct a search for a permanent Executive Director."

The Board of Directors will launch a comprehensive search for a permanent Executive Director in the coming weeks. Position details and application information will be announced shortly on the organization's website and through local media.

For more information about current exhibitions, upcoming events, or the Annual Community Art Show, contact Gallery Manager Chris Brewer at (301) 791-3132 or gallerymanager@washingtoncountyarts.com.

About Washington County Arts Council 

The Washington County Arts Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in Washington County, Maryland. Founded in 1968, WCAC enriches lives and strengthens the community through exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships that celebrate the transformative power of the arts. For more information, visit washingtoncountyarts.com.