Youth dance organization Moving in the Spirit has appointed Lita Ugarte Pardi as its new executive director, effective March 9.
Pardi brings more than 25 years of nonprofit and philanthropic leadership to the role, previously serving as senior knowledge and learning director at PEAK Grantmaking. She also spent 17 years at the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta, ultimately serving as vice president of community impact.
“Moving in the Spirit has always stood out to me as a place where young people are seen, celebrated, and supported to grow as artists and as human beings,” Pardi said in a news release.
“For years, I’ve watched this organization honor youth voice, and create conditions where belonging and confidence can flourish. It is an incredible privilege to step into this role and join the young people, families, staff, board, and teaching artists who make this work possible. I am excited to build on the powerful foundation that exists here and to help shepherd Moving in the Spirit into its next chapter of impact and possibility.”
Board president Henry Kelly says of Pardi, “Her depth of experience in strengthening nonprofits, guiding organizations through transition, and championing community-centered leadership aligns powerfully with Moving in the Spirit’s strategic vision for the future. Our board was especially moved by her understanding of the role the arts play in youth development and by her commitment to building structures that allow organizations and communities to thrive together. Lita is the right leader at the right time, and we are confident she will help propel Moving in the Spirit into a new era of growth, stability, and bold creativity.”
Moving in the Spirit uses dance instruction to help children and teens develop social, emotional, and leadership skills. Now in its 40th year, the organization has grown from a class of just 25 students to operating a $10 million arts development center.