DANVILLE \u2014 In the latest change in its year of restructuring, six-month interim Director Ashton Greer has been promoted to executive director of the historic Fischer Theatre.<\/p>\n
Greer also previously had been president of the Vermilion Heritage Foundation Board, which oversee the venue, and served in other roles with the theater.<\/p>\n
“Ashton has shown extraordinary leadership, vision and dedication to the Fischer and the Danville community,\u201d said Ruey Sandusky, board president of the Vermilion Heritage Foundation, through a press release. “Her ability to bring people together and implement sustainable change has set the stage \u2014literally and figuratively \u2014 for the theater\u2019s next chapter.\u201d<\/p>\n
According to the board, under Greer’s leadership:<\/p>\n
\u2022 The theater’s annual operating budget was reduced by about 30 percent, and the organization\u2019s financial reserves have quadrupled, while increasing the quantity and diversity of programming.<\/p>\n
\u2022 A matching donations campaign raised almost $70,000 in two months, funding ongoing operations, restoration of the gift shop and upcoming improvements to the theatre\u2019s concession area.<\/p>\n
\u2022 A new flexible staffing model was implemented, creating a more stable and scalable operational structure to ensure longevity.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Modern systems and efficiencies were introduced across theater operations, ensuring long-term success and sustainability.<\/p>\n
\u201cSince its restoration, the Fischer Theatre has been a symbol of pride and possibility for Danville,\u201d said Greer. \u201cIt\u2019s an honor to continue building on that legacy with our dedicated team, volunteers and donors. None of this is possible without this incredible group of supporters. Together, we\u2019re creating a vibrant, sustainable future for this historic landmark.\u201d<\/p>\n
Since 2020, Greer’s theater roles have included operations director, volunteer, donor, board member and board president.<\/p>\n
Her professional background also includes more than a decade in healthcare, government, nonprofit and entrepreneurial areas.<\/p>\n
She has a master\u2019s degree in organizational leadership and is co-founder of Fred & Ma LLC, a company dedicated to revitalizing downtown Danville through the restoration of historic properties.<\/p>\n
Greer also founded Clarity Design Co., where she serves as a fractional COO and leadership consultant. In 2024, she was appointed to the Danville Area Planning and Zoning Commission, and she was recognized as an Emerging Female Leader in Illinois at an Illinois Women in Leadership event.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n