The Tamaqua Community Art Center has a new member of its event support staff.

Carly Rinda, a resident of the Lewistown Valley section of Blythe Township, was recently hired part-time at the art center and will focus her attention on the art gallery, special events and evening classes.

Rinda has a background in fine arts, earning a bachelor’s degree in the subject from Shippensburg University. Her past work experience includes stints at the Allentown Art Museum and the Walk-In Arts Center. She is currently working on a master’s degree in art education from Kutztown University sees the part time job at the center as “a way to find personal uses for the skills I learned in college.” The evening hours work out perfectly for her family, which includes 3-year-old son, Jayden.

An interest in her Ukrainian heritage brought her to the Tamaqua Community Art Center two years ago for a class in Pysanky Eggs. That class led to her involvement in other art center activities, so, when the job opening was posted, it felt like a perfect match.

Leona Rega, director of the Tamaqua Community Art Center, says “We are excited to add Carly to our team. The arts center moves at a face pace working with volunteers, artists and the community making any new role at the arts center a professional challenge. Carly comes to us with an excellent background in both business management and the fine arts. As the arts center continues to grow and build a community presence, Carly carries with her an understanding of the importance of good relationships and a need for customer service. Her past interactions with artists and event planning allow us to explore new possibilities. When visiting us, be sure to give Carly a big welcome!”

“This job will help me continue to grow and learn. Watching the various ways different instructors interact with their students is interesting and makes a great connection, allowing me to continue learning.”