Leveraging decades of global business relationships to strengthen sponsorship opportunities, philanthropic support, and SPAC’s vision for the future
Saratoga Springs, NY (May 20, 2026) – Saratoga Performing Arts Center announces that it has appointed Michael Arpey as a new member of its Board of Directors, effective following the vote at SPAC’s Annual Meeting held on Thursday, May 14. A third-generation Saratogian and longtime arts advocate, Arpey brings to SPAC decades of international business leadership, deep philanthropic engagement, and a lifelong personal connection to the organization.
In his new role, Arpey will support SPAC’s efforts to expand philanthropic partnerships and cultivate new sponsorship opportunities through the extensive global relationships he has developed throughout his career. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for the organization as SPAC advances transformative initiatives including the historic renovation and reopening of Spa Little Theater, the expansion of year-round programming, and continued investment in arts education and community accessibility.
“Michael’s extraordinary global network, philanthropic leadership, and deep roots in the Saratoga community make him an invaluable addition to SPAC’s Board of Directors,” says Elizabeth Sobol, Chief Executive Officer of Saratoga Performing Arts Center. “Just as importantly, Michael brings a profound personal passion for SPAC and the performing arts. His enthusiasm for SPAC’s vision to expand cultural tourism and economic development, broaden access to the arts, and serve the community deeply as a true year-round organization, aligns powerfully with SPAC’s future.”
Michael Arpey shares: “SPAC has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I put myself through college working at SPAC, including five years managing the performer’s gate, where I had the chance to see everyone from Eugene Ormandy to the Grateful Dead. I also spent summers selling programs during New York City Ballet performances, and over the years developed a deep appreciation for the incredible breadth of artistry that has always defined SPAC. Those formative experiences created a deeply personal connection to this extraordinary place and a lifelong love of the performing arts.”
Michael and Stacie Arpey have generously supported SPAC’s overall mission for many years and, beginning in 2022, became underwriting supporters of SPAC’s School of the Arts Summer Camp program. Together, they have also been longstanding supporters of organizations throughout the Saratoga community, including Franklin Community Center and Yaddo, where Stacie currently serves on the board.
Mr. Arpey is the President of Hunter Point Capital. Prior to joining HPC, Mr. Arpey served as Global Head of Investor Relations at The Carlyle Group where, over the course of ten years, he built and operated the Investor Relations team on a global scale. Under his leadership, the team raised more than $200 billion through continuous capital raising for funds and separately managed accounts across asset classes, including numerous first-time strategies. Before Carlyle, Mr. Arpey spent a decade at Credit Suisse as Co-Head and Founder of the Customized Fund Investment Group, Credit Suisse’s $27 billion private equity fund-of-funds group. Mr. Arpey earned his B.A. from St. Lawrence University and his J.D. from Penn State Dickinson Law. He also previously served as a trustee of St. Lawrence University.
“I’m incredibly inspired by Elizabeth’s vision for SPAC as a year-round organization and by the transformative possibilities of the Spa Little Theater renovation. Expanding opportunities for smaller and more accessible performances, growing educational programs for children and families, and ensuring that SPAC continues to present world-class performances from companies like New York City Ballet and The Philadelphia Orchestra are all deeply important to me. I’m honored to join the Board and look forward to working alongside such a dedicated group of community leaders in support of SPAC’s future,” Arpey adds.
###
Saratoga Performing Arts Center
Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), located in the historic resort town of Saratoga Springs in upstate New York, is one of America’s most prestigious outdoor amphitheaters. Its exquisite setting in a 2,400-acre park preserve surrounded by hiking trails, geysers, and natural mineral springs draws lovers of arts, culture and nature for performances by resident companies New York City Ballet, The Philadelphia Orchestra, The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the Saratoga Jazz Festival, and concerts by Live Nation. SPAC also hosts imaginative programming such as Caffè Lena @ SPAC and initiatives in culinary, literary, healing and visual arts. SPAC is a 501c3 charitable organization. Donations and proceeds from fundraising events benefit the Center’s thriving education program, community outreach efforts, and the vibrancy of its programming. For more information visit spac.org.
NEWSLETTER