Doneeca Thurston-Chavez is the Executive Director of Lynn Museum/LynnArts and has served as the organization's first director of color since late 2019. In her role, Doneeca focuses on mission fulfillment, financial management, education and programming, and day-to-day operations, emphasizing community-centered initiatives committed to making their cultural campus more inclusive, accessible, and visible to all.

Previous to Lynn Museum/LynnArts, Doneeca was a Creative Engagement Producer at the Peabody Essex Museum, where she spent five years creating engaging intergenerational programs for a variety of audiences, often inspired by exhibitions and current events, and featuring local artists, creatives, and musicians. She also served as co-chair of the Equity & Inclusion Task Force, which focused on internal and external DEIAJ initiatives.

In addition to her work with Lynn Museum/LynnArts and MASSCreative, she serves as a board member for the New England Museum Association, Greater Lynn Senior Services, the North of Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, Salem Arts Festival, Essex National Heritage Area, and many other organizations. Outside her commitments, Doneeca enjoys cooking, camping with her husband and two rescue pups, and perfecting her candlepin bowling skills.

"I'm extremely excited to join the MASSCreative Board! Over the years, I've enjoyed participating in many advocacy days and opportunities to bring arts and culture to the forefront of our conversations with our local legislators. I'm honored to have a larger role with the organization and to help propel this important work forward for all of our creative communities across the Commonwealth."