Community Corner

ArtsQuest Names New Board Chairman

Samuel L. Torrence is the retired president and chief operating officer of Just Born.

 

Retired Just Born, Inc. President & COO Samuel L. Torrence has been named the new chair of the ArtsQuest Board of Trustees, the organization announced in a news release on Wednesday.

Torrence, a resident of Center Valley, will serve a two-year term that runs through January 2014.

Find out what's happening in Bethlehemwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As the chair of the ArtsQuest Board of Trustees, Torrence is charged with leading the 12-member board responsible for the overall governance of ArtsQuest. Among the volunteer board’s responsibilities are the development and approval of ArtsQuest’s annual operating and capital budgets, overseeing the organization’s strategic planning and developing and maintaining organizational policies.

Since moving to the Lehigh Valley in 1993, Torrence has been actively involved in numerous arts, community, education and health & human service organizations. Among the board and committees he has served on are those of the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Boy Scouts of America’s Minsi Trails Council, Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce, The Swain School and United Way of the Lehigh Valley.

Find out what's happening in Bethlehemwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“When I moved to the Lehigh Valley for my employment, I discovered a region that was very diverse and had a rich heritage. However, one major quality of life element that was somewhat lacking was an extensive commitment to the full range of arts, music and entertainment found in other robust, vibrant communities,” Torrence said through the release.

“The arts are a powerful tool for attracting and retaining people in your community. After attending my first Musikfest, I knew ArtsQuest understood this and had the formula to do something about it, so I wanted to get involved. With the opening of the ArtsQuest Center and SteelStacks I am enjoying watching a transformation take place in our region, and I am honored to play a role in helping this dynamic organization fulfill its mission and objectives.”

Said ArtsQuest President Jeff Parks: “When it comes to arts, education and our community, Sam Torrence’s vision, passion and enthusiasm are unmatched. Sam is a charismatic leader, dynamic fund-raiser and a tireless champion of programs and causes that benefit both children and our community as a whole."

A native of Canton, Ohio, Torrence earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from General Motors Institute in Flint, Mich., and his doctoral degree in law from Akron University of Law in Akron, Ohio. From 2002-08, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Just Born. Prior to that, he spent eight years at Mack Trucks, Inc., serving in executive vice president roles in human resources, administration, parts operations and quality control.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here