Spokane Arts Fund Appoints New Executive Director

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Elisabeth Hooker
509.998.4145
lizh@downtownspokane.org

Spokane Arts Fund Appoints New Executive Director

Spokane, WA [March 28,2024] -– Following a nationwide search, Spokane Arts, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering creativity and promoting arts and culture throughout the Spokane region, is delighted to announce the appointment of Skyler Oberst as its new Executive Director.

As Executive Director, Oberst will lead Spokane Arts in its mission to support arts and culture through grantmaking, programming, advocacy, and professional development. "I am honored to join Spokane Arts and to have the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated team," said Oberst. "I look forward to advancing our mission and supporting the vibrant arts community in Spokane."

Oberst brings over a decade of experience collaborating with civic and community leaders in the Pacific Northwest. With a background in anthropology, philosophy, and religion, Oberst has contributed to projects like the Millennial Values project at Georgetown University and the Pluralism Project at Harvard, earning recognition as a Germanacos Fellow for innovative interfaith leadership, and a youth delegate for peace to the G20 Forums.

Focused on fostering collaboration and community building, Oberst is renowned for his acclaimed video-series, Meet the Neighbors, and is a sought-after public speaker. Named one of Catalyst magazine's "20 under 40" leaders, Oberst continues to drive positive change through his broad and intercultural dialogue work.

Founded as the arts foundation, staffing the City of Spokane Arts Commission since 2014 and serving the broader Spokane region, Spokane Arts plays a vital role in nurturing the creative sector. The organization provides direct support to individuals, groups, and organizations in the arts community while promoting local arts and culture to the wider community.

"We are thrilled to welcome Skyler as our new Executive Director," said board chair, Elisabeth Hooker. "His proven leadership, history of collaboration building, combined with his dedication to advancing the arts, make him the ideal candidate to lead Spokane Arts into its next chapter."

Oberst's appointment comes at a pivotal time for Spokane Arts as it continues to expand its reach and impact in the region. With the support of its dedicated Board of Directors and the Spokane Arts Commission, the organization is poised to further enhance the quality, diversity, accessibility, and presence of arts and culture in the region.

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Spokane Arts Fund is a dynamic 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing creativity and enriching the cultural landscape of the Spokane region. As the local arts agency for the City of Spokane and the broader community, Spokane Arts Fund provides essential support to individuals, groups, and organizations in the creative sector through grantmaking, programming, advocacy, and professional development opportunities. Guided by a passionate Board of Directors and the Spokane Arts Commission, Spokane Arts Fund plays a vital role in fostering collaboration, innovation, and accessibility in the arts, ensuring that Spokane continues to thrive as a vibrant hub of cultural expression and artistic excellence. For more information about Spokane Arts and its initiatives, please visit www.spokanearts.org.