The Community Arts Council (CAC) has a new president.
Past-president Zelda Craig is still actively involved in the area's premier arts advocacy organization but after four years in the chair, she is stepping into the new post to allow for Linda Rempel to take the position. It creates an even stronger leadership cluster with the not-for-profit organization that umbrellas over virtually all other arts organizations in the region, facilitating and fostering cultural growth for the community using all sectors of the arts.
"Linda is exactly the kind of person we would wish to have at the helm of our organization at this time, because she combines her business experience and entrepreneurial spirit with a profound love of creativity and community," said Sean Farrell, the CAC's executive director. "In my two years in the role of executive director, I feel honoured to have first worked with Zelda Craig, who is held in such high esteem for her professionalism and multiple skill sets, and now with Linda Rempel, who will certainly be a very strong leader throughout our upcoming, multi-year, capital project."
That capital project centres on moving the CAC from its structurally failing Studio 2880 location (2880 15th Avenue) to the high profile corner of Third Avenue and Quebec Street on the cultural promenade of Prince George's downtown.
The current building is only a fraction of what the CAC requires for its in-house member organizations, artist studio spaces, cultural offices, gallery and retail space for the arts, performance spaces, and future growth. More structure must be added.
"I am excited to join the vibrant and hard-working team at the Arts Council at such a pivotal time in its history," Rempel said. "Building on 50 years of supporting amazing local art and artists, I believe the next 50 years will be equally impressive, and it will start with our move into our new facility. The new downtown location for Studio 2880 will serve Prince George citizens with rich artistic experiences that foster all levels of talent - and will contribute to community building for years to come."
Rempel is a Sun Life financial advisor and is the exclusive representative for the Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan in North Central B.C. With deep ties to the community, Rempel is keen to be part of the arts council's role in weaving a healthy social fabric in Prince George.
Joining Rempel and Craig on the CAC's governance team are:
Philomena Hughes, vice-president
Penny Fahlman, treasurer
Heather Gloster, secretary
Ivan Paquette, reconciliation officer
Christina Doll, director
Karen Heathman, director
Louise Kerr, director
For more information on The Community Arts Council of Prince George & District, please visit www.studio2880.com or email executive@studio2880.com.
