Published on November 21, 2022 | SI Advance | Written by Carol Ann Benanti
SUNDOG THEATRE
Amanda Straniere has been named new chair of Sundog Theatre’s board of directors as the company enters its 21st year.
In her new position, Straniere takes the reigns from Jason Walters who served in that post for seven years.
A lifelong Staten Islander, Straniere has been a supporter of organizations and initiatives that bring culture to life in her hometown.
Currently a Regional & Community Affairs Specialist at Con Edison, where she builds relationships with elected officials, she shares initiatives with the community, and supports non-profits through the company’s charitable giving program.
Previously, she served as Development Manager for the Staten Island Museum and the Director of Tourism & Cultural Affairs in the Office of the Staten Island Borough President.
A graduate of Dickinson College, the University of East Anglia, Straniere earned an executive master’s of public administration from Bernard Baruch College. In addition to serving on the board of Sundog Theatre, she also is a representative on the Citizen’s Advisory Committee for CreateNYC.
“It has been a pleasure to serve on the board of Sundog Theatre for the past five years and see firsthand the great work that they do” says Straniere. “Sundog brings so much to our community, from original works like ‘Scenes from the Staten Island Ferry’ to fostering a love of theatre in youth through their arts in education programs. I want to thank Jason Walters for his leadership, especially through the pandemic. I am excited to take on this new role as board chair and look forward to continuing to support Susan, the board, and the Sundog team.”
“Amanda has been a wonderful addition to Sundog’s board” notes Susan Fenley, Sundog Theatre’s executive director. “She possesses expertise in development and management, and has been a valuable advisor during her years here. Her reach into the Island’s community is a boon to our organization, helping Sundog interweave its connections in many areas. We thank Jason for serving as chair for so many years, and are excited to see Amanda step into this position.”
ABOUT SUNDOG THEATRE
Founded in 2002, Sundog Theatre is a Staten Island-based performing arts organization with several components to its mission: Original, contemporary, and thought provoking theatre in diverse venues, culturally-based school programming rooted in theatre, visual arts, dance, music and literacy programs for schools that complement classroom lessons through the arts, tri-state touring productions for schools on educational and contemporary themes and acting lessons offered year-round for youth from 9 to 17 years of age.
For further information visit www.SundogTheatre.org or phone 718 816-5453.
