Art & the Human Ecosystem: How Portland is Growing and Supporting the Creative Economy

Join us on Friday, March 21st from noon to 1 PM as Jennifer Hutchins speaks about “Art & the Human Ecosystem: How Portland is Growing and Supporting the Creative Economy.” Ms. Hutchins will talk about the City of Portland’s focus on the creative economy as a central priority in its 2013-2014 Economic Plan & Vision and touch upon the specific programs and strategies that are currently underway. She will also discuss Creative Portland’s goal of attracting 10,000 highly skilled professionals to the region and engaging them as supporters of the creative community.

Jennifer Hutchins has been the executive director of Creative Portland since 2010. Prior to joining Creative Portland, Jennifer was the director of communications and external affairs for the Muskie School of Public Service at the University of Southern Maine. While there, she co-authored the seminal 2004 report on Maine’s creative economy for Governor John Baldacci. Prior to that, Jennifer worked as a communications and public affairs professional for nonprofits in Maine and Washington, D.C.

Jennifer is currently on the boards of the Greater Portland Economic Development Corporation and the Greater Portland Convention & Visitors Bureau. She holds a master’s degree in public policy and management from the USM Muskie School and an undergraduate degree from Union College in Schenectady, New York. She lives in Portland with her husband and two children.

This Forum program will take place from 12 noon to 1 p.m. in Callahan Hall at the Lewiston Public Library, 200 Lisbon Street. Admission is free. This is a brown-bag, bring your own lunch event.  Coffee, tea and water will be available.  For more information on the Great Falls Forum, contact the Library’s Adult Services Department atLPLReference@LewistonMaine.gov or call 513-3135.