Strengthening NH's Creative Economy: Welcoming New Leaders to the NHBCA Board

The New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts (NHBCA) is marking a year of growth and renewed commitment to fostering partnerships between the business and arts communities across the Granite State.

We are excited to announce the addition of six dynamic leaders to our board of directors: Tressa Webb, Head of Fixed Income Investment Services at Fidelity Investments; Marc Siragusa, Manager of The Westbrook Inn; Meredith Noyes, Chief Creative Officer at Cookson Communications; Jay Doherty, Principal at Lavallee|Brensinger Architects; Clayton Adams, President and CEO of Mascoma Bank and Vance Freymann, Regional Director, New Hampshire for Consigli Construction Co., Inc. Each of these new members brings a unique perspective and passion for the arts, bolstering NHBCA’s mission to build partnerships between businesses and the arts, further enriching New Hampshire's cultural landscape.

A SHARED VISION FOR COMMUNITY IMPACT

The New Hampshire Business Committee for the Arts (NHBCA) fosters strategic partnerships through collaborative projects that connect businesses of all shapes and sizes, nonprofits and artists throughout New Hampshire.

MEET THE NEW BOARD MEMBERS

We are honored that Tressa, Marc, Meredith, Jay, Clay, and Vance have chosen to share their wisdom and commitment to enhancing the culture of the Granite State. Their diverse expertise helps us strengthen the partnership between business and the arts, ensuring both can thrive together.

Tressa Webb, the Head of Fixed Income Investment Services at Fidelity Investments, brings over 25 years of financial industry experience to the NHBCA board. Since assuming her current role in 2020, she has overseen investment operations for Fidelity’s Fixed Income division, having previously served as Vice President of Portfolio Services, managing support for bond and money market portfolios and overseeing Fidelity’s derivatives and complex securities programs. Tressa holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire. Her expertise in financial management and her passion for community development are invaluable assets as she joins us in advocating for the arts.

Marc Siragusa is Manager of The Westbrook Inn, where he and his family have transformed a historic Derry property into a thriving venue for weddings, corporate gatherings and pop-up dining events that feature live music. Marc’s innovative approach to hospitality earned him recognition as a 2023 Rising Star by the New Hampshire Lodging and Restaurant Association. His background in business administration and real estate gives him a unique lens through which to see the value of the arts in creating vibrant, memorable experiences. His entrepreneurial spirit aligns seamlessly with NHBCA’s goals of fostering arts and culture in New Hampshire.

Meredith Noyes, Chief Creative Officer at Cookson Communications, brings her award-winning design expertise to the NHBCA board. With a background in illustration and branding, she uses her creative talents to support nonprofit efforts like The Superhero Project, where artists create alter-egos for children and teens facing serious health challenges. Meredith’s work reflects the power of art to inspire and uplift, making her a valuable advocate for integrating the arts into business and community settings. Her commitment to creativity and community adds a fresh perspective to our board’s mission.

Jay Doherty, a licensed architect and Principal at Lavallee|Brensinger Architects, brings a unique blend of creativity and community focus to the NHBCA board. His work emphasizes creating innovative spaces for K-12 learning, with a passion for integrating the performing and visual arts into educational environments. Jay’s decade-long tenure as the executive director of the SNOB (Somewhat North of Boston) Film Festival in Concord, NH, highlights his deep-rooted commitment to the arts. Additionally, his volunteer leadership as co-chair of the Concord Architectural Design Review Committee ensures the city maintains its architectural heritage and charm.

Clay Adams has been at the helm of Mascoma Bank as President and CEO since 2017. Under his leadership, the bank has not only expanded into new markets but also became one of the first banks in the U.S. to earn B Corporation certification. Clayton's previous role as CEO for Simon Pearce—a company renowned for its hand-crafted glass and pottery—underscores his dedication to both business success and artistic craftsmanship. His extensive experience in community engagement and nonprofit leadership will be invaluable as he joins NHBCA's board.

Vance Freymann serves as Regional Director in New Hampshire for Consigli Construction Co., Inc., overseeing projects totaling around $150 million in 2024. His leadership extends beyond construction, as he actively contributes to developing the next generation of talent through the ACE Mentor Program. Vance co-chairs ACE New Hampshire and has been instrumental in launching a new ACE program at the Manchester School of Technology. His dedication to introducing high school students to careers in architecture, construction, and engineering aligns perfectly with NHBCA’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation across industries.

A FUTURE FOCUSED ON COLLABORATION AND GROWTH

As we look toward the future and implementing our new 5-year strategic plan, the addition of these exceptional leaders to our board underscores NHBCA’s ongoing commitment to fostering creativity, innovation and partnership. Their involvement is a testament to the belief that when businesses invest in the arts, they invest in the heart of their communities. We are eager to see how Tressa, Marc, Meredith, Jay, Clay and Vance’s unique perspectives and expertise will shape our work, helping to ensure a vibrant and thriving arts and culture scene throughout New Hampshire.

Together, we can continue to highlight the value of the arts—not just as a source of inspiration but as a vital force that drives economic growth and community well-being. Welcome Tressa, Marc, Meredith, Jay, Clay and Vance to the NHBCA board. We are excited to collaborate with you to strengthen New Hampshire's creative economy for years to come!