Our Board & Support Team

PRESIDENT

Ruthann McCarthy

Ruthann McCarthy is a multi-generational Taoseña and dedicated community-steward whose family’s roots on the Taos Plaza date back to 1904. Her family owns several key historic properties in downtown Taos, including Casa Benavides Inn, McCarthy Plaza, and The Rock House.

A passionate community advocate, Ruthann founded the Taos Roundtable, a weekly gathering focused on preserving and supporting the heart of Taos. Most recently, she opened Legacy Café on the Plaza — a space she describes as equal parts restaurant and museum, carefully curated with historic photographs, art, and artifacts that honor Taos’ tricultural heritage. As incoming President of the Taos Fall Arts Festival Board, Ruthann brings over a century of community investment, deep local knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to the cultural legacy of northern New Mexico.

VICE PRESIDENT

Montanna Binder

Montanna Binder is a storyteller, curator, writer, photographer, creative director, and exhibiting fine artist based in Taos, New Mexico. Previously the Gallery Manager of 203 Fine Art for over four years, they are equipped with extensive knowledge into the art histories of Taos. They have also exhibited their own artwork locally and internationally, including Taos, NM; Santa Fe, NM; Chelsea, New York, NY; Brooklyn, New York, NY; London, United Kingdom; Nizhniy Tagil, Russia; Tucson, AZ; Bellingham, WA; Sydney, Australia; Hong Kong, and more.

They are the backbone of expanding TFAF’s reach and ensuring the festival continues to serve as a vital platform for Taos County artists for generations to come.

SECRETARY/TREASURER

Margaret Pope

Margaret Pope is an interdisciplinary artist and educator. Formerly Associate Professor of Art and Chair of The ARt Department at The College of Idaho, she recently moved to Taos New Mexico to focus on her artistic practice. margaretpopeart.com

ADVISORY MEMBER

Rhonda Porter

Rhonda Porter is a private art collector and philanthropist with a deep passion for supporting the visual arts. She brings to the TFAF board a collector’s eye, a commitment to cultural investment, and the resources and relationships to help grow the festival’s reach and impact.