Forty Under 40: Jodi Beznoska, 35

Jodi Beznoska grew up in New Hampshire, did her undergrad studies at a small college in Maine and earned a master’s in business-arts administration at the University of Wisconsin at Madison.

But when presented a job offer to work at the Walton Arts Center in 2005, the decision to move to Arkansas was easy.

“It’s the kind of institution that my colleagues and peers would want to work for,” said Beznoska, who has previously been involved with performing arts centers throughout New England and Wisconsin.

“It’s solid, innovative and well-funded, and that doesn’t exist all that much anymore in the arts.”

Beznoska spent her first four years as the WAC’s communications director before being promoted to vice president in August 2009.

In that time, the facility has seen a 34 percent sales growth and Beznoska implemented the 10×10 Arts Series, an effort that has increased attendance at dance and classical music events by more than 40 percent.

Beznoska cited a 2008 performance by Yo-Yo Ma as especially memorable. She said watching children fill the WAC hall for a Colgate Classroom Series event is among her more satisfying moments.

“They’re so excited to be there and bouncing around, like popcorn in a pan,” she said.
Some of Beznoska’s favorite activities are playing volleyball, writing, singing and traveling.