Montclair Foundation Welcomes New Executive Director

MONTCLAIR, NJ — The Montclair Foundation will soon have a new executive director, Mark Packer.

Recently, the foundation – which helps to funnel assistance to local nonprofits – announced that Packer will take over as executive director on Nov. 1. He will succeed Charles Fischer, who retired on Sept. 30.

“We, at The Montclair Foundation, are extremely happy that Mark Packer has agreed to be our new executive director and look forward to a busy and bright future under his thoughtful and experienced leadership,” Chairperson Emer Featherstone said.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this gem in the heart of Montclair that provides needed assistance to local nonprofits and serves as an oasis for the community to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Van Vleck House and Gardens' stunning grounds,” Packer said.

“I look forward to helping the foundation expand its educational footprint and maximize its potential as a resource for the community and beyond,” Packer added.

According to the foundation:

“As the executive director at South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC), Mark provided administrative leadership, stabilized its operations and finances, and built the center into a highly respected and renowned regional arts destination. Coupled with his tenure as executive director at Appel Farm Arts and Music Center in Elmer, NJ, Mark is uniquely qualified to balance the hybrid duties of championing the mission of The Montclair Foundation and overseeing the operation of The Van Vleck House & Gardens. Mark is a graduate of Kenyon College and has attended courses toward his Ph.D. in sociology at University of Pennsylvania and Temple University.”

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