RTPI welcomed Joni Blackman as their new Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at the turn of the New Year. A longtime resident of the Jamestown area, Joni has over 30 years’ experience in leading and managing not-for-profit organizations. She served as executive director of the Fenton History Center for 14 years and is currently board president of the James Prendergast Library Association. 
Joni has also served on the board of the Das Puppenspiel Puppet Theatre, Chautauqua County Visitor’s Bureau, Reachout Ministries, Inc., and her current community involvement includes future President of the Jamestown Rotary Club in the 2019-2020 year, and Chair of one of the local Southern Chautauqua County United Way Allocations Panels.
Speaking of her dedication and her new position, Blackman says “Not-for-profits provide necessary services and opportunities in all communities. From basic humanitarian needs such as food and shelter to cultural enrichment that make all lives better. I’m excited to use my skills to assist the very able staff and volunteers of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute as we work together to spread Roger’s legacy through art, education and conservation programming.”
Joni led the Fenton History Center through many changes; expanding the campus, growing the annual budget, and building the volunteer corps. She brings her background in not-for-profit management which includes finance, fundraising, museum operations and both board and staff leadership skills to her new position. The RTPI staff and board of directors are extremely pleased to have attracted someone with Joni’s skills, experience, and passion to our team.
Be sure to say hello to Jon the next time you stop by RTPI!
