Brian Keeler and Michelle Donner Prepare to Leave The Stissing Center
“We would just meet every day, figure out what we had to do next, then figure out how to do it.” That’s Jack Banning, former Board Chair, describing the early years of working with Brian Keeler during the transformation of Memorial Hall into The Stissing Center. “It was really just the two of us.”
That was back in 2014, after the building was bought at auction and became a not-for-profit entity. The total focus was a design, construction and fundraising project. Jack met Brian when Brian was Chief of Staff for State Senator Terry Gipson. When the renovation project came into focus, he reached out to Brian. Although Brian had no construction management experience, his sharp intelligence, administrative experience, and his career as an actor gave him the confidence to come aboard. “It was a gift,” says Brian, “to be offered an opportunity like this, that pulled together so many of my experiences and passions and also required a steep learning curve.” Nine years later, The Stissing Center has become a thriving Pine Plains fixture under Brian Keeler’s leadership and direction.
Another key moment in this process of transformation was when Brian brought Michelle (Misha) Donner on as his first paid staff member. Although her official title was Development Director, Misha functioned with great latitude and a wide informal portfolio, including marketing, facility management, and strategic planning. Patrick Trettenero, The Stissing Center’s current Board Chair, considered Misha “Brian’s right arm”, and characterized their relationship as “a little like George and Gracie” - lively and spirited, but always rooted in deep respect, admiration, and affection.
Today, The Stissing Center functions as a vital community hub, hosting Stissing Mountain High School’s award ceremonies, silent film nights, Community Day festivities, square-dance evenings, and the Local Produce play-reading series. It has also established itself as a continuous source of excellent live music events ranging from bluegrass, country, swing, and its popular Chamber Music series.
In the coming weeks, both Brian and Misha will be stepping down from their respective roles. Misha has moved and now lives in Boston. While rightfully proud of his accomplishments, Brian has decided it is time for new leadership for The Stissing Center’s next chapter. “But I’ll admit, I’m going to miss it.” says Brian. They leave behind a solid foundation for incoming Executive Director Brett Bernardini. Says Brett: “The Stissing Center is perfectly positioned to deepen its support of the local community and further establish itself as a local cultural destination.”
So it is with our deepest gratitude we say: thank you Brian Keeler and Misha Donner, for your dedication, hard work and vision. Pine Plains finds itself a richer, more dynamic community thanks to your heroic efforts.