SALISBURY, MD – Mayor Jake Day and the City of Salisbury are proud to announce the hiring of Allen Swiger as Director of the City’s new Arts, Business, and Culture Development Department (ABCD).
Swiger comes to the City with ten years of event management and local government experience, and currently acts as the Recreation Superintendent for Worcester County Recreation and Parks. From 2015 to 2019, Swiger was the Program Director at Wicomico County Recreation and Parks, overseeing execution of Pork in the Park, the Wicomico County Fair, and many other popular events.
“We are excited to welcome Allen as the first Director of the Arts, Business, and Culture Department. By creating this new department we have the opportunity to build off of the strong cultural and placemaking foundation we have in Salisbury and continue to make our city the premiere location to live, grow a business, visit and play,” said Mayor Jake Day. “Allen is the right leader to launch this Department and further put Salisbury on the map as we look to grow our residential base and to continue to make our city known for our unique experiences and regional attractions.”
ABCD is a groundbreaking new department for the City—by producing signature events, facilitating business incentives, and collaborating with stakeholders, the department works as the bridge between arts, business, and culture in Salisbury.
The City is thrilled to add Swiger to the team and kick off ABCD ahead of great events in store for 2022, including River Races, Hops on the River, the National Folk Festival, and many more to come.
Since moving to the Eastern Shore 11 years ago, Swiger says he has developed a passion for event planning and creating memorable experiences in his community. He graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology and a minor in Communications, and now enjoys his free time with his wife and two children. “I’m thrilled to join such an amazing team of inspirational people,” said Swiger. “We’re going to continue to bring unique experiences, opportunities for businesses, and a culture where art can thrive to grow the City of Salisbury!”
