Mission Cultural Center Loses Interim Director After Three Weeks

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The interim director of the Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts in San Francisco, Derek Jentzsch, stepped down over the weekend, citing the center's inability to pay for his services. Jentzsch, a nonprofit consultant, had assumed the role earlier this month but ended up working nearly full-time without receiving any compensation. The center, which usually closes during the first weeks of the year, has yet to reopen its doors due to a lack of funds.

Why it matters

The Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts is a vital community hub that provides classes, art shows, and printing workshops. Its closure and leadership changes highlight the ongoing challenges faced by nonprofit arts organizations in San Francisco, particularly those serving marginalized communities.

The details

Jentzsch, the former interim director, said he was scheduled to work part-time as a contractor at $1,250 per week, but ended up working nearly full-time. He wrote in an email that 'no money was received or ever will be' and that he 'can't afford to work for free for very long.' The center's board member, Robert Sanchez, said Jentzsch's experience, connections to nonprofits and the arts, and willingness to take the position led to his selection as interim director.

• The interim director, Derek Jentzsch, stepped down over the weekend.
• Jentzsch had assumed the role earlier this month.
• The center usually closes during the first weeks of the year, but has yet to reopen its doors.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The center's board will continue conversations with the city's Art Commission this week to discuss an advancement in funds that are usually released in February or March.