“It’s a difficult time, but it’s also an exciting time because it’s given us a chance to explore offering programs in new ways,” she said on March 1. “It’s encouraged us to become creative, offering new programs and in different formats.”
Ashby succeeds Doug Coe of Hastings, who was executive director of RiverArts since 2013. Last summer, the executive director role was divided into two positions: artistic director and managing director. Josh Suniewick of Hastings came on board as managing director, while Coe remained as artistic director until he retired last month.

Doug Coe, the driving force behind RiverArts since he was hired as executive director in 2013, has announced his retirement, effective Feb. 1, 2021. Coe’s position as executive director of the nonprofit was split into two part-time jobs this summer. Coe became artistic director while Josh Suniewick of Hastings was hired as managing director.