Dear board members, partners, and friends,
I’m writing with some big news: the time has come to pass the baton to the next leader at the Independent Publishing Resource Center. I have treasured my time at the IPRC, first serving as a board member, Managing Director and, for the last two years, as the Executive Director. From the cramped offices of downtown to our expanded facility on SE Division, it has been amazing to see the IPRC evolve over the last 6 years. It’s also been an incredibly dynamic time of my own growth and one of the most rewarding times in my professional career. Over the last several months, it has all come together: it’s time for me to pass the helm and the IPRC could not be better positioned for this next phase.
As is often the case, it’s the people involved with the IPRC who have made the organization thrive. The IPRC has a very strong and dynamic board of directors, a galvanized volunteer base and a passionate staff to usher in the next phase of development. The IPRC is also incredibly lucky to have the perfect candidate within the organization to lead the IPRC. Which is why it is with great pleasure that I announce our incoming executive director: A.M. O’Malley. A.M. comes to this position with over seven years on staff at the IPRC, most recently serving as our Program Director. To ensure a smooth and smart transition, A.M. and I will be co-directing over the next three months to capitalize on our shared knowledge and dedication to the IPRC.
A.M. says of her upcoming transition –
“I am honored and thrilled to be taking on a new level of leadership as Executive Director at the Independent Publishing Resource Center. The IPRC community has hugely invested in, supported, and challenged me to be the person and leader I am today. I feel as though my past seven and a half years of work, growth, personal and professional development have been preparing me for this opportunity. I am proud to follow in Pollyanne’s footsteps as a leader with a deep commitment to the IPRC’s core values and mission.”
What we have accomplished over the last several years at the IPRC has given us a solid foundation to continue to grow. Together with Board, Staff, volunteer and massive community support, we’ve tripled the IPRC’s operating income in the last 7 years. Our SE facility has proven imperative to our growth with our expanded space providing incredible opportunities for additional work space and programming, including performance and literary events. The IPRC continues to increase Portland’s reputation as “The Small Press Capital of the World.” and has empowered thousands of individuals to publish their own zines, books, artwork and digital media.
Many thanks for supporting unique and amazing community at the IPRC; I look forward to continue to be involved during what will be an exciting new era for the Center.
Although I am leaving the Executive Director position at the IPRC, I will continue to be a part of the IPRC community, serving on the Resource Council. So, this is not good-bye, but merely see you next time!
Feel free to contact us at info@iprc.org with questions.
Pollyanne Birge