BCA Welcomes New Executive Director

Leave Deborah a Welcome Note Below!

February 1, 2012, Portland, Ore. – The board of directors of Business for Culture & the Arts (BCA) has named Deborah Edward its new executive director.

A longtime arts advocate and strategist with substantial management and fundraising experience, Edward comes to Portland from Sacramento, where she has been responsible for implementing an ambitious regional arts and cultural action plan for Mayor Kevin Johnson.  She is the founder of the Austin Children’s Museum and served as its executive director for 16 years.  She also was executive director of Greenlights for NonProfit Success, an Austin-based organization providing consulting, education and technical assistance to nonprofits of all types.

Edward has consulted with museums and cultural institutions in Russia and the Czech Republic.  With a Ph.D. in educational psychology, she has taught graduate courses in nonprofit strategy, philanthropy and the arts, and nonprofit management.

“Portland’s growing national reputation for outstanding arts and culture organizations generated many applications for this position,” said Jeff Bird, BCA board chairman and an attorney at Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt. “We are delighted to attract someone with Deborah’s experience and background, who understands how to create initiatives and strategic partnerships that connect people and businesses to the arts and build community prosperity.”

Edward replaces Virginia Willard, who retired at the end of 2011 following a dozen years at the helm of the 25 year old nonprofit organization.

“I’m excited to join BCA and to engage regional business leaders in the important discussion about the tangible value of arts and culture,” said Edward.  “In today’s global economy, a vibrant arts and culture scene offers competitive advantage, setting a region apart as a great place to live and work.  The return on investment is a community known for innovation, energy and success that drives economic vitality and civic pride.”

Edward takes on her new assignment February 1, 2012.  BCA’s long-time associate director, Susan Myers, will be interim executive director until Edward arrives.

About BCA

Business for Culture & the Arts (BCA) is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to strengthening Oregon’s cultural and economy vitality. BCA’s advocacy, strategic alliances, membership programs, research, networking and celebratory events help to connect businesses and the arts for mutual benefit.  Approximately 180 Portland businesses are members of BCA, which is an affiliate of the national Business Committee for the Arts, Inc.

Contact          

Nancy Carter
Carter PR
503-452-3333
nancy@carter-pr.com