Susan Berliant Hired As Chief of Development

The Contemporary Arts Center Announces New Development Structure to Keep Pace with Increased Demand

The Contemporary Arts Center (CAC), one of the nation's oldest and most celebrated contemporary art institutions, announced that Susan Berliant has been hired as Chief of Development, a newly created position, and that Elliott Ruther will join at the end of February as Director of Development. The development department’s new structure signals an infused effort to court additional sources of major funding and annual support for the CAC. The change came about as the institution looked at strengthening its ability to respond to the ever growing demand for—and popularity of—its programming and the diverse audience it serves. "In order to keep pace with the demand for CAC programming, it became clear that we needed to look at a new development model. Now is an important time for us to ramp up our efforts. The new structure speaks to our priorities as an institution—we are investing in the future of a thriving, creative Cincinnati," said Raphaela Platow, the CAC’s Alice & Harris Weston Director and Chief Curator.

As Chief of Development, Berliant will oversee all aspects and functions of the department and guide philanthropic strategies. “I am pleased to be joining the Contemporary Arts Center at such an exciting moment and to work with Platow, the Board and the committed team they have assembled,” Berliant said."The CAC is revolutionizing what it means to be a museum in Cincinnati. It positively impacts people’s lives by providing access to an incredible world of artistic production and experimentation. Its strong position in the art world, outstanding international reputation, connection with the local community and engagement across generations make it unique. I respect this institution and its mission enormously, and it is my goal to support and advance its growth.” James Miller, President of Bartlett & Co. and CAC Board President, remarked, "This newly created position reflects the CAC's long-term commitment to continue offering the best in cutting-edge contemporary arts programming. Under Raphaela’s leadership, the CAC has experienced a period of great energy and growth. Berliant's appointment will enhance our capabilities, helping us to fulfill the needs of an audience who increasingly looks to us for inspiration and views us as more than just a museum. We are in a strong position to take the CAC to the next level of development.”

Elliott Ruther will step into the role of Director of Development on February 21. “The Contemporary Arts Center has always been a great source of innovation, inspiration and stimulation for the community. It is vital to fueling the creativity of this region and I'm excited to be a part of this very special institution,”  said Ruther.  Together, Berliant and Ruther will drive initiatives to increase the CAC's self-sufficiency and further its mission and goals. “Both Susan and Elliott share our commitment to connecting people through contemporary art. Susan’s keen expertise, experience and unrivaled reputation—both in this community and in the fundraising community at large—makes her a tremendous asset to the Contemporary Arts Center moving forward. In addition, Elliott’s diverse interests and experience, his passion for the arts and this city makes them a formidable pair," Platow said.