Toby Usnik co-founded and continues to co-lead ArtsCom, a dynamic network of Chief Communications and Marketing Officers representing over 85 of New York City’s most prestigious cultural institutions and philanthropic foundations — including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, MoMA, the Guggenheim, Lincoln Center, and Bloomberg Philanthropies.

With a vision to elevate the role of communications in the arts and nonprofit sectors, Toby developed a platform for collaboration, innovation, and strategic exchange among senior leaders. Under his leadership, ArtsCom has become a vital force in strengthening the visibility, relevance, and resilience of the city’s cultural ecosystem.

Key Contributions & Impact:

• Strategic Programming: Designs and leads quarterly programming on emerging trends in media relations, digital storytelling, brand stewardship, DEI communications, and leadership development.

• Capacity Building: Facilitates workshops and peer learning sessions focused on improving institutional communications capacity, internal alignment, and audience engagement.

• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Encourages knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships between arts organizations, media leaders, foundations, and civic institutions.

• Thought Leadership: Serves as a trusted voice and connector in the sector, helping institutions navigate communications challenges with clarity, purpose, and innovation.

Toby’s work with ArtsCom reflects his long-standing commitment to the cultural sector and his belief in the power of strategic communications as a catalyst for impact and transformation.