GoggleWorks Center for the Arts is proud to announce the hiring of Devyn Briggs as the new Artistic Director and Rachael Romig as the new Development Director. These strategic appointments come at a time of expansive growth and innovation at GoggleWorks, signaling a dynamic future for the arts center.
Briggs studied at the Maryland Institute College of Art where she earned a BFA in Ceramics and a Master of Professional Studies in the Business of Art and Design. In addition to cultivating a professional artistic practice, she has worked in fine art collection management, creative start-ups, community and public art, non-profit management, and higher education. Most recently, Briggs served as the Adult Programs Manager at the Allentown Art Museum and as an adjunct professor at Northampton Community College. Committed to furthering equity and access to the arts in the Lehigh Valley, Briggs has served on several committees including the CACLV Campaign for Racial and Ethnic Justice, Southside Arts District Design Committee, Juneteenth Lehigh Valley, and the African American Business Leaders Council.
“I’ve been incredibly blessed to join the GoggleWorks team as Artistic Director. I get to work with an outstanding group of expert artists and administrators to dream up an exciting schedule of classes and exhibitions that highlight diverse mediums and artists,” said Briggs, “We’re currently expanding our maker studio offerings to include new spaces, equipment, mediums, and class offerings. We’re also embarking on several new community partnerships and initiatives that further connect our work at GoggleWorks with the broader Reading and Berks County communities.”
Romig was most recently the Senior Director of Business Development, Special Programs, Events & Annual Giving at the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance, where she focused on relationship building, strategic program development, events, and fundraising. One of her main focuses and areas of growth with GRCA was the Women2Women program with the mission to develop women leaders in Berks County. She is also on the Board of Directors with Safe Berks and owns “Just Breathe. Weddings & Events,” a wedding and event planning company.
“What is happening at GoggleWorks is something everyone needs to know about. I am excited to not only increase visibility of all the work that is taking place, but also share the stories of the people who work here – the people who are making it all happen,” said Romig. “GoggleWorks is now driving a huge community impact effort, a city block wide, and could never do it alone. This growth marks a time for support to come in different ways – corporate or individual – all to be a part of creating something fantastic in the city, ensuring access to art for everyone, of all ages. I look forward to building upon current and creating new relationships to continue the growth of this amazing organization with proof that everyone has the creative spirit in them – you just have to find where your passion lies.”
Levi Landis, Executive Director of GoggleWorks, expressed his excitement about the new additions: “Adding Devyn Briggs and Rachael Romig to our leadership team at GoggleWorks marks a significant sign of growth and alignment with our enduring team values of being hungry, humble, smart, and curious. I am thrilled to work alongside them to fulfill our mission.”
With these new appointments, GoggleWorks continues its commitment to enriching the community through the arts and ensuring broad access to artistic experiences.