Alexander Zapata

The Boston Arts Academy Foundation (BAAF) has announced the appointment of Alexander Zapata to the newly created position of director of Engagement and Alumni Giving.

The 2008 graduate of Boston Arts Academy (BAA) and a former member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Zapata will focus on strengthening alumni connections and building a vibrant community to inspire future generations at Boston’s only public school for the performing arts.

“The Foundation is enormously pleased to welcome Alex in this new role,” said BAAF President and CEO Denella Clark. “Alex’s experience as a BAA student, board member and successful business leader are tremendous assets to the organization. We look forward to reaching new heights with his help.”

Zapata brings over 15 years of leadership experience across finance, education and sports management. After graduating from BAA, he earned an MBA at Suffolk University, where he now serves as an adjunct professor of business. His professional background includes a decade in the financial sector as a vice president at Citizens Bank and co-founding Z-Axis Sports, an agency representing top Latino athletes.

“It is the dream of a lifetime to build on the foundation that set me on my professional journey,” said Zapata. “There are so many stories like mine that define what this school means to Boston, and I am excited to bring these stories together to strengthen the Academy and the Foundation.”

Emily Melo, a fellow 2008 alumna and current BAA teacher, praised the appointment.

“Alex’s story mirrors that of many students in Boston who rise above challenges to pursue their dreams. He has always embodied the values of humility, respect and a clear vision for success.”

Established in 1999, the BAAF is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises essential funds to augment the school’s budget. The Foundation bridges the gap between public funding and the true cost of a high-quality, arts-intensive, college-preparatory education. The BAAF is currently engaged in a $35 million “Building Our Future” campaign to ensure long-term sustainability.

Founded in 1998, BAA is a leader in student-centered education. In 2022, the school moved into a new $125 million facility designed to serve over 600 students with state-of-the-art studios, theaters and academic classrooms. BAA exemplifies the power of an arts-rich education and many BAA graduates have found success in college through the arts.