Beverly Main Streets Tabs Former Scientist As Executive Director

Beverly MA

06 October, 2021

6:09 PM

Description

BEVERLY, MA — A former research scientist for the Smithsonian Institute, nonprofit manager and marketing consultant is the new executive director of Beverly Main Streets. Rachel Borgatti has been selected to succeed Gin Wallace, who retired in September after 14 years, as the leader of the economic development nonprofit. "I've long been intrigued by the intersection of art, environment, community and place, making Beverly, with its vibrant downtown life, thriving arts community and access to the ocean, the perfect place," Borgatti said. "Authentic place-based work cannot be done alone and I'm excited to collaborate with the board, the city of Beverly and community stakeholders to continue to ensure that Beverly's main streets and the arts district continue to be vibrant, inclusive and thriving places." She began her career as a research scientist at the Smithsonian, has been a fundraiser for and managed sustainability programs for nonprofits and municipalities, and was the executive director of a public space management nonprofit in Boston. She most recently was a marketing, operations and community engagement consultant for social impact organizations. "Rachel is a pragmatic leader full of energy and enthusiasm. Her love of community and collaboration will prove to be an asset to the organization as we move forward with the downtown 2030 strategic plan made in partnership with the Beverly community," Beverly Main Streets Board of Directors Brenda Murphy said. "The board looks forward to working with Rachel as our new executive director and is confident that Beverly Main Streets will be well-positioned under her guidance for years to come." Paul Gentile, who co-owns Gentile Brewing, endorsed Borgatti's selection. "As a local business owner and resident, I'm thrilled to welcome Rachel to Beverly," he said. "She is a highly regarded nonprofit leader with a clear passion for connecting people and will ensure our downtown continues to grow and prosper for the benefit of everyone. "I am excited for her to continue our 'Downtown For All initiative' and to work to improve our wayfinding, signage and walkability of our great little city." Did you find this article useful? Invite a friend to subscribe to Patch. (Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at [email protected]. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)