FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -
March 5, 2026
(Marshalltown, Iowa) - The Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center Foundation (the MACC Foundation) is pleased to announce the appointment of Deb Borton as the organization’s first Chief Operating Officer (COO). This newly established role marks a significant milestone in the MACC Foundation’s mission to strengthen its day-to-day leadership, long-term sustainability, and service to the Marshalltown community.
A familiar and respected leader within the organization, Borton transitions into this role from her previous position as Program Manager for the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation. During her tenure, she distinguished herself as a forward-thinking leader, successfully strengthening internal systems, partnerships, and programs through a highly collaborative approach.
As COO, Borton will serve as a key member of the MACC Foundation’s executive leadership team, providing high-level oversight of the MACC Campus. Her responsibilities will include long-term strategic planning, financial oversight, and the development of 21st-century systems to ensure the facility’s sustainability and safety.
“Deb brings a rare combination of technical expertise, operational depth, and a genuine commitment to service,” said Heidi Dalal, Executive Director of the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation. “Her ability to translate complex operational needs into actionable strategies will elevate the MACC Foundation’s impact and help position the organization for long-term success.”
Borton’s leadership will focus on several core pillars of the MACC Foundation’s mission:
Borton’s background aligns seamlessly with the rigorous demands of the role. Her proven track record in managing complex operations and her "customer-first" orientation ensure the visitor experience at the MACC remains welcoming, professional, and memorable.
"I am thrilled to take on this new challenge at a time of such incredible potential for the Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center Foundation,” said Borton. “Transitioning into this inaugural role feels like a natural evolution of my commitment to Marshalltown. My priority is to bring an innovative, twenty-first-century perspective to our operations, building the sustainable systems and data-driven policies necessary to fuel our long-term growth. We aren’t just maintaining a building; we are cultivating a dynamic cultural hub. I look forward to working with our partners to expand public access, deepen our community impact, and ensure the MACC campus evolves as a resilient, vibrant asset for the entire Marshalltown region."
“This is an exciting moment for the MACC Foundation,” said Nick O’Toole, Chair of the MACC Foundation Board. “Deb’s leadership brings clarity, structure, and momentum at a time when the organization is poised for growth. The Board fully supports her as she steps into this role and looks forward to the continued advancement of the MACC as a cornerstone of the Marshalltown community.”
In addition to her strategic duties, Borton will provide direct supervision to the events staff, administrative staff, and facility personnel, ensuring a positive and accountable work culture.
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The Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center is home to the Fisher Art Museum, the Martha-Ellen Tye Playhouse, and versatile spaces for public and private events. Originally founded as the Fisher Community Center in 1958, the building was restored following the 2020 derecho and continues to carry forward the legacy of Bill and Dorothy Fisher in supporting the arts and enriching community life, through the Fisher Governor Foundation DBA Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center Foundation of Marshalltown, Iowa.
