A member of the organization’s board of directors for the past four years, Porter began her new role July 1.

“This is an important time for women, and ArtTable is uniquely positioned to take a leading role in mentoring the next generation of leaders in the arts,” she said in a news release from the organization. “Our members are among the most prominent, dynamic and effective leaders in the art world, and they represent the very best of our field.”

Porter earned a bachelor’s degree from UD in art history and French literature, with a minor in Japanese language and cultural studies, and a law degree from the University of Maryland.

She most recently was executive director of New York Artists Equity Association and Equity Gallery, where she expanded membership in the nonprofit by 45 percent and increased its diversity through strong programming and exhibitions. From 2006-2017, she was the founding director of Porter Contemporary, an art gallery in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, known as a center of the city’s art world.

Whitney Rutter, ArtTable’s board president, said in the news release that Porter’s appointment continues the organization’s mission of supporting accomplished women in the visual arts.

“Jessica has a deep knowledge of the art world, our members and the critical issues our organization must address for women in the field,” Rutter said. “We are excited to see what she will accomplish in this role.”