Seeking our Next Executive Director

For 20 years, John Rice’s welcoming smile and outstretched hand have greeted everyone who has rented the Hyde Community Center gym, walked by the garden when he was watering, or come to the many events at the Hyde Bandstand. John thrives on bringing people together and has taken the role of executive director to a whole new level.

John believes in the importance of community and the mission of the Hyde to serve the community. He engaged with Newton city government to create a solid working relationship during his tenure as executive director of the Hyde. He created programs for all age groups, maintained a solid booking of rentals for income, managed a remarkable amount of capital improvements, and expanded our sponsors of special events. It was John’s vision, perseverance, and interpersonal skills that made the bandstand a reality.

John also oversaw the renovation of the city-owned Brigham House and its ongoing maintenance to ensure the multi-use facility could initially support after-school programs for middle schooler, and later an inclusive art class and programming for Newton’s seniors during the construction of the Cooper Center, when multiple programs were shifted over to the Hyde and Brigham House temporarily.

John informed the Hyde Board that he has decided to step away from the executive director position to facilitate other community programming in the City of Newton. He leaves very big shoes to fill.

We are looking for a new executive director who is committed to the mission of the Hyde Community Center and has the skills and drive to add to the strong foundation John has built. If this describes you, we encourage you to apply for the position. Please see the job description outlining the qualifications and responsibility.

We will miss John but, happily, he will not be far away.

Janice Bourque
President
Hyde Community Center