The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts at St. Bonaventure University has named Paula Fidurko Bernstein as its new assistant director.

Bernstein is currently executive director of the Tri-County Arts Council. She begins work at SBU on Jan. 21.

A lifelong Olean resident and dedicated community advocate, Bernstein brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the arts to this new role.

Bernstein will work closely with Dr. Rachel Harris, Quick Center executive director, to implement the Quick Center’s strategic vision, fostering academic collaborations on campus, building artistic partnerships within the community and region, and promoting the Center’s exhibitions to enhance visibility locally, regionally, and nationally.

“I’m honored to join the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts team and contribute to the revitalization of the arts across St. Bonaventure, the local community and Western New York,” said Bernstein.

“I’m passionate about showcasing the incredible talent and expertise of our students, faculty and staff while fostering collaboration with local and regional artists. Together, we will create a dynamic cultural environment that celebrates creativity and strengthens our community through the transformative power of the arts.”

Bernstein is well known in the Olean area for her extensive volunteerism and leadership in numerous nonprofit organizations. She is president of the Rotary Club of Olean, area governor for Rotary District 7090, and serves on several boards, including the Genesis House of Olean, Friends of the Library and Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce.

In 2023, Bernstein and her husband, Alan, were recognized as Volunteers of the Year by the Greater Olean Area Chamber of Commerce and honored at the YMCA’s 38th Annual Salute to Olean for their years of service.

Bernstein’s dedication to the Olean community is inspired by her late parents, David and Penny Fidurko, who instilled in her a lifelong commitment to kindness and service.

“Paula’s extensive leadership experience, passion for the arts, and deep ties to the community make her an invaluable addition to our Quick Center team,” said Harris. “We are excited to work with her as we continue to expand our mission of revitalizing the arts and fostering creative collaboration.”

The Bernsteins live in Olean with their beloved rescue pets, Bear, Colt, Sprout and Kitty Mouse.

For more information about the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts and its programs, visit 2cx9.xyschool.net/quickcenter.

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About the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts: The Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts at St. Bonaventure University serves as a dynamic hub for the arts, offering world-class performances, exhibitions, and educational programs. Dedicated to enriching the university and surrounding community, the Quick Center celebrates creativity, innovation and collaboration across the arts.

About the University: The nation’s first Franciscan university, St. Bonaventure University is a community committed to transforming the lives of our students inside and outside the classroom, inspiring in them a lifelong commitment to service and citizenship. Out of 167 regional universities in the North, St. Bonaventure was ranked #6 for value and #14 for innovation by U.S. News and World Report (2024).