Arts Services Inc. (ASI) is thrilled to introduce Libby Pfonner as our new Programs & Services Coordinator. Libby leads ASI’s Arts Access program and brings a dynamic blend of experience in the arts, social work, wellness, and community engagement. Her background spans more than 15 years in creative roles including several years coordinating wellness programming for individuals recovering from substance use disorder.
When asked what drew her to ASI, Libby shared a sentiment that captures her passion beautifully:
“I believe the arts should be accessible to everyone, and I am eager to help ASI continue breaking down barriers so that families and individuals across Western New York can connect with transformative artistic experiences.”
With a BFA in Computer Art and a minor in Art History, Libby began her career as a graphic designer before shifting toward wellness and human services. Most recently, she served as the Wellness Coordinator at Cazenovia Recovery Systems, where she designed inclusive wellness programs and worked closely with staff and residents across diverse backgrounds. It was through this role that she first collaborated with ASI and became familiar with the Arts Access program—an experience that ultimately inspired her to join the organization.
Now at ASI, Libby supports the day-to-day coordination of Arts Access while lending her creativity and compassion to broader programs and services that uplift artists and arts organizations across Western New York. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to understand both sides of the equation: the needs of the arts community and the lived experiences of passholders seeking access to meaningful cultural opportunities.
How Libby Sees the Arts Strengthening Communities
For Libby, the arts are a powerful connector. “The arts provide a common space where people from diverse backgrounds can collaborate, communicate, and celebrate their identities while discovering shared values,” she said.
Her experiences in recovery support work showed her how transformative the arts can be for individuals who may not have had access to creative outlets growing up. She believes strongly in the role the arts play in expression, stress relief, community-building, and personal growth—values that align closely with the heart of the Arts Access program.
Q&A with Libby
To help everyone get to know Libby better, we asked her a few questions about her background, inspirations, and life outside of work.
What led you to ASI, and what experiences are you most excited to bring into your role?
After school, I was a graphic designer for over 15 years before transitioning into a wellness realm. Eventually, my love of fitness and helping people led me to Cazenovia Recovery where I worked with people recovering from substance use disorder. This is where I learned about ASI. I am a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, so I think my arts and social work background lead me here! Not only do I understand the arts community, but I also understand Arts Access’s passholders. I am so excited to be a part of this organization.
Libby alongside the student leadership team from the college art gallery “One Hour.”
What drew you to Arts Services Inc. and what excites you most about being here?
Collaborating with the Arts Access program while working at Cazenovia Recovery led me to ASI. After learning about the Arts Access program and ASI’s mission, I knew it was something I eventually wanted to be a part of. I’m most excited about implementing what I’ve learned in my career, in both arts and social work, into the Arts Access program while also merging the connections I have made.
In your view, how can the arts strengthen and connect communities?
The arts provide a common space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can collaborate, communicate, and celebrate their unique identities while discovering shared values. Public art projects, performances, and community workshops foster dialogue, empathy, and understanding, helping to bridge social and cultural divides. Through artistic expression, communities not only reflect who they are but also imagine and build a more inclusive and connected future.
My work at ASI in the Arts Access program will help bridge the art community with people of diverse and social economic backgrounds. During my time with Caz Recovery, I have found that so many people were never exposed to the arts in their life and once they are they find a new form of self expression, stress relief, and purpose.
What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you outside of your professional life?
Not only am I artsy, I’m also sporty. A couple of my hobbies include creating stained glass art and Olympic weight lifting. I also enjoy the outdoors. My family and I go camping every year and each summer we find a new zoo to visit.
If you could share a meal or conversation with any creative person, past or present, who would it be?
There’s so many! In college I was a huge Pop-Art nerd and one of my all-time favorite artists was Roy Lichtenstein. Or perhaps I’d like to talk with Edgar Allen Poe. Talking with any creative person is so interesting because they all interpret the world differently, especially depending on the medium.
Libby in Allegany State Park with her family.
Want to connect with Libby? Send her an email at [email protected].
