LOWELL, MASS.: Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT) has named Bonnie J. Butkas to be its new executive director. Butkas, who currently serves as the senior director of foundation relations at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), will begin her new post at MRT this fall.

“Bonnie Butkas is the greatest team builder and fundraiser I’ve ever encountered in my 20-plus years of working in this field,” said artistic director Sean Daniels in a statement. “I have no doubt that now, with a true partner in Bonnie, we can take MRT to the next level—to be the leader of new-play production in the country while making sure our financial health is in expert hands. Leaving a great job at RIT, moving her family—she’s doing a lot because she believes in what MRT is doing and what the true potential of this city is.”

At RIT, Butkas has led strategic efforts to secure funding from private and family foundations. Previously she served as director of development at the Geva Theatre Center in Rochester, N.Y., where she oversaw growth in the company’s contributed income and played a key role in a capital campaign. She has also held positions at the York Theatre Company, TADA! Youth Theatre, the Lexington Dance Collective, and Bristol Valley Theater. She received degrees in journalism and dance from the University at Buffalo.

“I am thrilled to serve Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s storied history and to partner with artistic director Sean Daniels, whose artistic vision, community partnerships, and creativity have laid the groundwork for the next chapter of MRT,” said Butkas in a statement. “I am grateful to the Board of Trustees and staff for their support, and I look forward to becoming part of this incredible community.”