Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen names new president and CEO

The Board of Directors of The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen has appointed Janet Starke to serve as the organization’s next president and CEO, following the planned retirement of current leader K Alferio in January.  

 Starke, an arts professional with decades of experience in nonprofit management, community engagement and cultural programming, will lead the 50,300-square-foot center into its next chapter of growth and innovation. She has spent more than a quarter-century in arts and arts education and has extensive experience in executive management, strategic planning, government relations and grant-making. 

“This organization occupies a rare and vital place in the Richmond region’s cultural landscape,” Starke said. “I have admired and engaged with the center for nearly two decades. Its mission of building community through the transformative power of the arts is something I have worked to advance throughout my career.” 

Starke is the owner and principal of J Starke Consulting LLC and has served as executive director of the Performing Arts Venues Alliance, a nonprofit focused on positioning the performing arts venues industry as an economic and civic necessity. She previously served as executive director of the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance.  

“We are thrilled to welcome Janet Starke as our next president and CEO,” said Leslie Olma, chair of the center’s board. “Her passion for the arts, proven leadership and deep understanding of our region make her the ideal person to guide The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen as we continue to inspire creativity, enrich lives and serve our community."   

Alferio, who has served as the center’s president and CEO for the past 18 years, welcomed Starke’s selection.

“As I move into retirement, I could not imagine a better person to guide the center into its next phase of growth and success,” she said. “I have every confidence in Janet’s ability and am honored that she chose to join the center’s team.” 

Starke will oversee the center’s strategic vision, operations, fundraising, programming and community partnerships while advancing its mission to make the arts accessible and meaningful for all. 

Since its opening in 1999, the center has become one of central Virginia’s premier cultural destinations, offering visual arts exhibitions, performances, educational programs and community events that connect audiences with artists throughout the region.  

“What distinguishes the Cultural Arts Center is not only the breadth of its programming, but the depth of its commitment to community,” Starke said. “My focus as president/CEO will be on deepening philanthropic partnerships, expanding earned and contributed revenue and positioning the center as an even more visible champion for the visual and performing arts across Henrico County and the greater Richmond region.”