Lana Rogachevskaya has concluded her two-year service to SOPAC as its Executive Director.
The accomplishments of Lana’s tenure reflect the collective work of SOPAC’s staff, Board of Governors, and volunteer corps in partnership with the community — from a period of significant transition, through stabilization, to SOPAC’s 20th Anniversary celebration.
Under Lana’s leadership, SOPAC’s programming expanded to reflect the cultural richness of Essex County and the greater South Orange/Maplewood community. Lana championed the launch of Haitian Flag Day — featuring Emeline Michel, the first Haitian artist to headline a sold-out show on SOPAC’s Mainstage. The organization introduced new annual traditions, including Noon Year’s Eve Party; sustained beloved local traditions, including the Giants of Jazz, the South Orange International Blues Festival, and the SOMA backStage Reading Series. SOPAC expanded its Alvin Ailey school residency program and introduced a multi-year Mike Wiley programming partnership, including a community dialogue on civil rights history. Working in partnership with the Board, Lana welcomed Box Office Cinema as SOPAC’s new sub-tenant, revitalizing a vital downtown cultural anchor.
During this period, SOPAC also relaunched its membership program, welcomed Landmark Hospitality Group as Season Sponsor, and grew audience attendance across its programming.
“On behalf of the Board, we are grateful for Lana’s leadership and dedication to SOPAC and the community. We thank her for her service and wish her all the best in her next chapter. We remain focused on building on this progress and continuing to serve our community,” said Aida Jones, Chair of the Board of Governors.
“SOPAC is unlike any venue I’ve led — the smallest in size, with the biggest volume and a glass-enclosed atrium that houses visual, performing, and arts education programs (and five movie theaters). What stands out most are the relationships with artists, cultural partners, and community members who make this work possible. I’m proud of the programs we’ve built together and the partnerships that will continue to propel SOPAC onward,” said Lana.
Miriam Vales, SOPAC’s Chief Financial Officer, has been named Interim Executive Director as SOPAC begins a thoughtful and deliberate process to identify the organization’s next Executive Director. The Board remains committed to maintaining leadership continuity, stability, and organizational momentum during this transition.