Hawkins
The nonprofit Columbus Area Arts Council has named Brooke Hawkins interim executive director after current leader Kathryn Armstrong leaves at month’s end.
Hawkins will lead the work of the arts council while the board of directors begins a search for the agency’s next top executive.
Hawkins, a graphic designer, has years of experience as a contractor and volunteer for the arts council.
She has been the organization’s brand manager for five years, overseeing its rebranding in 2017. In addition, Hawkins has twice served as co-chair of Uncommon Cause, the organization’s largest annual fundraiser.
Columbus Area Arts Council Board President Mike Elwood said he is confident in Hawkins’ ability to step in as a temporary leader because of her vast institutional knowledge of the arts council and relationships in the local arts and cultural community.
“Brooke has been involved with our organization for years in several different capacities,” Elwood said. “She has been a volunteer, she understands the inner workings of the organization, and importantly is connected to the people and programs that make CAAC a success.”
The organization’s outgoing executive director, Kathryn Armstrong said she is grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the arts council’s growth over the past six years, implementing new programs, working closely with a devoted staff, creative team, and strong board of directors.
“CAAC is well-positioned to be the leading arts organization for Columbus, serving the community and artists at all stages of their careers,” Armstrong said. “Brooke has been part of this success and I’m certain she will keep the organization moving forward until a more permanent executive director has been hired.”
Hawkins and Armstrong will work together for several weeks prior to Armstrong’s departure to ensure a smooth transition.
“Throughout the past several years, CAAC has been transformed into a world-class arts organization,” Hawkins said. “I will work closely with the board of directors and the staff to maintain this level of excellence. We want to create a solid, welcoming, and engaging environment for the next executive director to begin their work in the arts in Columbus.”
