East Boston, MA – March 25, 2025 – East Boston Main Streets is pleased to announce the appointment of Ethan Vogt (pronounced E-thun Vote) as its new Executive Director. A resident of East Boston and the founder of Eastie dot Biz, an Instagram account dedicated to showcasing local businesses and entrepreneurs, Ethan has been actively engaged in promoting the neighborhood’s economic and cultural vibrancy.
”We are delighted to announce Ethan as our new Executive Director,” said Jeff Thomas, President of the East Boston Main Streets Board of Directors. “Ethan brings tremendous creativity to the role, and given his experience executing difficult and innovative projects, we know East Boston business owners and residents are really going to enjoy working with him.”
As a board member of the Mary Ellen Welch Greenway, Ethan has spearheaded efforts to upgrade the park’s lighting to illuminate murals and support public programming. He has also engaged with the nonprofit coalition Boston Waterfront Partners to advocate for East Boston’s working waterfront, promoting long-term economic, cultural, and climate resilience. With experience living and traveling throughout Latin America—including extended stays in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Chile, as well as visits to Colombia, Brazil, and beyond—he is eager to support and celebrate East Boston’s many diverse cultural heritages.
“I’m thrilled to welcome my friend Ethan Vogt as the new Executive Director of East Boston Main Streets,” said State Representative Adrian Madaro. Ethan has been a dedicated advocate for our neighborhood for years. His leadership on the board of the Eagle Hill Civic Association and his commitment to bringing public art to East Boston have helped strengthen our community. His passion for our neighborhood and his strong work ethic will allow the East Boston Main Streets to continue to support our small businesses and multicultural local economy.”
Born in Boston, Ethan studied film and photography at Harvard College and has since lived in South Boston, Roxbury, and New York City. His early career as a cameraman and film producer included work on the acclaimed independent feature Funny Ha Ha, recognized by The New York Times as one of the most influential films of its decade. In 2010, he transitioned to public event production and placemaking, leading large-scale initiatives that brought together businesses, artists, and residents to activate underutilized spaces, strengthen commercial districts, and galvanize the community. His signature projects included “Bring to Light” in Brooklyn, “Camden Night Gardens” in New Jersey, and serving as the Director of Programming for ILLUMINUS in Boston in 2015.
When the pandemic impacted in-person events, Ethan served East Boston as a door-to-door enumerator for the 2020 Census and maintained a 4.9 rating as a ride-share driver, providing over 5,000 rides to residents. He earned his real estate license in 2023 and previously worked out of the CRG office in Maverick Square with a focus on commercial properties.
“I’m honored to step into this role and work with the Board of East Boston Main Streets alongside our incredible business community,” said Ethan. “I look forward to listening to local entrepreneurs and finding creative ways to support the independent businesses that make our neighborhood such a dynamic place to live, work, and visit.”
Ethan is committed to collaborating with business owners, residents, city officials, and nonprofit partners to ensure East Boston’s commercial corridors remain vibrant, authentic, and welcoming to all for years to come.
About East Boston Main Streets
Founded in 1995, East Boston Main Streets (EBMS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting economic development, supporting small businesses, and enhancing the vibrancy of East Boston’s commercial corridors. Our Board of Directors, who volunteer their time and talents, are committed to fostering an inclusive community that supports the growth and
well-being of our small business community and the residents of East Boston. Through advocacy, community events, and business support services, EBMS works to strengthen the local economy while preserving the unique character of our neighborhood.
The 29th edition of EBMS’ annual event and fundraiser, Taste of Eastie, will be held on Tuesday, July 22nd and will kick off a new year-round campaign highlighting East Boston’s vibrant food scene.
