OMAHA – The WhyArts Governing Board of Directors has named Mary Kingslan Gibilisco as the organization’s next executive director. She will begin her duties Jan. 4.

Gibilisco was appointed to the WhyArts Governing Board of Directors in 2021 as part of the merger between WhyArts and Arts in Motion. She has been affiliated with Arts in Motion (formerly The Artery) since 2004, initially as a visual and Dancing Classrooms teaching artist, then as the organization’s business/grants manager and finally as a board member. Most recently, Gibilisco was employed by the Metropolitan Community College Foundation in the development department.

“We are thrilled to welcome Mary as our new executive director,” said Jon Flower, president of the WhyArts Governing Board of Directors. “She brings a wealth of experience with both WhyArts and Arts in Motion, uniquely positioning her to honor the history of each while charting a new course for our newly combined organization. The board was energized by Mary’s fresh ideas and passion for arts in our community. We look forward to this next chapter with great enthusiasm.”

Gibilisco said she is looking forward to continuing the strong programming that both arts organizations have delivered over the years. “I am excited to be part of the WhyArts team, and I look forward to honoring, continuing and expanding the inclusive arts mission.”

From the University of Nebraska, Gibilisco has a Master of Science in Youth Development and Nonprofit Management, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Studio Art, Minor in Art History and in Spanish) and an Adult Training certificate from the College of Continuing Studies. She is an accomplished visual artist and instructor. Gibilisco lives in Omaha with her husband, John. They have two grown children and two grandsons.

Kim Jubenville, who served as the WhyArts executive director since Nov. 1, 2019, will return to her role as a teaching artist with the organization. Jubenville has been affiliated with WhyArts since 2005. She helped guide the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and was instrumental in equipping WhyArts with the necessary infrastructure to continue its service to the Omaha metro.

Jubenville is excited to return to teaching and looks forward to Gibilisco’s leadership. “Mary is exactly what the newly merged WhyArts needs to continue to grow and maintain its excellent representation as a trusted provider of inclusive arts programming to the area’s underserved and disabled populations,” she said.

Gibilisco can be reached at mary.gibilisco@whyartsinc.org.