American Society of Botanical Artists Announces New Executive Director

BRONX, N.Y. - Dec. 16, 2016 - PRLog -- The American Society of Botanical Artists announces that Diane Batson-Smith will become its Executive Director effective January 16, 2017.

"We are thrilled to have someone with the rich background, energy and enthusiasm Diane brings to this role", says ASBA Board President Jody Williams. "Her extensive experience with non-profit organizations in the visual and performing arts will be a tremendous asset to ASBA."

Diane is the current Executive Director of the Chenango Arts Council in Norwich, New York and Board Chair of Development with the Roberson Museum and Science Center in Binghamton, New York. Diane was previously Executive Director of the Martina Arroyo Foundation, and the Tennessee Arts Commission and Arts Development Council. She brings broad-based non-profit management, marketing, leadership and development skills as well as experience as an award winning film director and producer to her new role with ASBA.

Diane earned a BFA in English and Theater from Hollins University in Virginia and an MFA in Directing from New York University. She is a practicing visual artist and will be relocating to the New York City area.

In its 22nd year, the American Society of Botanical Artists (http://www.ASBA-art.org) provides a thriving, interactive community dedicated to perpetuating the tradition and contemporary practice of botanical art. With over 1500 members in 30 countries, ASBA capitalizes on botanical art's power to raise ecological awareness and enrich the lives of its members and the general public through botanical art instruction, exhibitions, publications, and educational outreach.