AIHA Announces New PR/Marketing Staff

The Albany Institute of History & Art is proud to announce that Michael J. Lavery has been named Marketing Manager and Penelope Vavura has been named Public Relations Manager.

Mr. Lavery’s primary focus is to encourage visitation of group tours and to initiate a facility usage program for the museum’s new 7,000 sq. ft. public function space.  He has more than ten years experience in the hospitality industry and previously held the position of Executive Meeting Manager at Albany Marriott Hotel on Wolf Road.  A native of the Capital Region, Mr. Lavery received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Denison University, Granville, OH.

Ms. Vavura’s main responsibilities include media relations and web site maintenance as the Albany Institute gears up for its grand reopening and celebration year activities.  She has more than seven years experience in the museum field and previously held the position of Corporate and Donor Relations Coordinator for the New York State Museum.  Ms. Vavura, a native of the Capital District, is a member of Albany Chapter of Women in Development.  She received her bachelor’s degree in anthropology/archaeology from Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY