Birondo named executive director of The Rozsa Center

What’s happening: The Rozsa Center, a non-profit organization and venue supporting community performance arts from the campus of Michigan Technological University, has appointed Kiersten Birondo as its new executive director. Birondo, who has been the center’s marketing manager for the past three seasons, brings extensive experience and a strong passion for the arts to the role. She succeeds former Director Mary Jennings, who led the organization from 2014 until April 2024. The announcement marks the end of a five-month nationwide search led by Michigan Tech’s Visual and Performing Arts Department.

Returning home: Birondo is a fifth-generation Upper Peninsula native. Graduating from Houghton High School and Michigan Tech, she was active in community theater and music and often experienced many of the positive effects The Rozsa Center created in the area. Before taking her current role at The Rozsa Center, she served as director of marketing and communication for SteppingStone Theatre for Youth in St. Paul, Minn., and co-founded the organization ‘Now.Make.Art.’, which provides free, youth-centric arts experiences in public spaces. 

What they’re saying: “I know the impact this organization can have on one person and our entire community,” Birondo said. “I am outrageously excited and honored to be chosen to lead the Rozsa into next year’s 25th anniversary and beyond, continuing to imagine innovative ways for the Rozsa to serve the campus and community.” 

What’s next:  Birondo will start her new role on November 1, 2024, giving her roughly one month to transition into the position. A number of presenting series, concerts and events are still on the schedule for the Rosza Center during the transition.