Erica Bondarev Rapach is currently Acting Executive Director of The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland where she is part of the team of campus leaders who collaborate around the strategic vision for the performing arts at Maryland. 

Erica is committed to aesthetic equity and inclusive access to the arts. Previously the associate executive director of The Clarice, she informed the design and implementation of partnership-based programs and created professional development opportunities for emerging arts leaders. Erica began her tenure with The Clarice in 2009 as director of marketing and communications, where she oversaw media relations, advertising, promotions, and guest experience.  

Erica came to The Clarice in 2009 from the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, where she helped launch the BSO at Strathmore’s marketing campaign, spearheaded the redesign of the orchestra’s website, and initiated its digital marketing strategy.

Experienced in both the academic study and practical applications of arts management, Erica has been working in the field for over 15 years and earned her Master's Certificate in Arts Management from American University. She is now adjunct faculty in that graduate program. Erica received her bachelor's degree in international studies and Russian language and literature with a minor in music from Illinois Wesleyan University. 

A violinist by hobby, Erica played with the Volgograd Symphony Orchestra while a Peace Corps volunteer in Russia and initiated a first-ever U.S. tour for the group which led her to arts administration. She received her Bachelor's degree in International Studies and Russian Language & Literature with a minor in music from Illinois Wesleyan University.

Erica is married to a fellow arts administrator, has two daughters, is fluent in Russian, and finds peace and purpose on her yoga mat.