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SAMA appoints four new members to its board of trustees

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Courtesy photo The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art announced four new members to its board of trustees. They are (from left): Gary Discavage, Barbara Hollander, Chantel Ventura and Michael Strueber.

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art has appointed four individuals to its board of trustees: Gary Discavage, Barbara Hollander, Michael Strueber, and Chantel Ventura.

These new trustees bring a wealth of experience, expertise and passion for the arts to SAMA.

Each will play a vital role in guiding the museum as it continues its mission to preserve, exhibit and advance the visual arts across the region.

Gary Discavage: "As I age, I realize that art is all around us, sometimes seen and sometimes unrecognized. Human beings have been given a gift from God to create and to express ourselves with art that lifts, moves and changes our lives in ways that are indescribably profound. Whether it is a great painting, a child's scribble or a carpenter's joint, art separates us from animals and takes us closer to the Divine. I agreed to join SAMA's Board because SAMA celebrates this belief and through its museums and community outreach gives our community the opportunity to learn, discover, celebrate and make art in our lives every day. I want to join SAMA's parade in this effort."

Barbara Hollander: "I am honored to join the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art Board of Trustees. Having spent 21 amazing years at SAMA as an educator and site director, I was fortunate to work closely with artists, students and museum supporters throughout our region. I look forward to continuing my lifelong passion for the arts by working with my fellow trustees to ensure the museum's vitality and future success."

Michael Strueber: "I am joining the SAMA Board of Trustees to help facilitate placing the arts into social settings. As well, I will attempt to broaden the exhibition schedule and educational programs of our nationally accredited institutions."

Chantel Ventura: "As someone passionate about creativity and innovation, I see SAMA as a vital space where people of all ages can connect with the arts. I am thrilled to help expand opportunities for engagement and education."

"We are thrilled to welcome Gary, Barbara, Michael and Chantel to SAMA's Board of Trustees," said Barry H. Newborn, president. "Their unique backgrounds and dedication to the arts will strengthen our organization as we continue to celebrate excellence in the arts and broaden SAMA's impact in our communities."

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is celebrating its 50th year of sharing the arts through its exhibitions, programs and events. With locations in Altoona, Bedford, Johnstown and Ligonier, SAMA remains committed to enriching lives and inspiring creativity throughout the region.

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is in the Brett Building at 1210 11th Ave., Altoona. The hours of operation are noon to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. The museum is an accessible facility and is open to the public free of charge.

The museum suggests a $5 admission donation to help support SAMA's free and low-cost educational services, cultural event programming and regional artistic exhibitions.

For more information, visit https://www.sama-art.org or call 814-946-4464 or email altoona@sama-art.org. Follow SAMA on acebook and Instagram@SAMAaltoona.

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