LAFAYETTE, La. (AP) — An arts center in Louisiana has chosen a new director.
The Daily Advertiser reports Samuel Oliver will lead Acadiana Center for the Arts in Lafayette. He is a native of the city.
"The AcA has a truly inspirational history," said Oliver in a statement. "As an institution with deep roots in the community, it has served as one of the most culturally rich regions of the country and adapted to serve a broad audience since its founding as an arts council in 1975."
Oliver succeeds Gerd Wuestemann, who resigned in February to become president and CEO of Scottsdale Arts in Arizona.
Oliver previously served as assistant director for operations and administration at the Contemporary Arts Center in New Orleans. There, he helped establish an audience development program and oversaw a $12 million renovation of a museum and performing arts facility.
Dan Hare, president of the board of Acadiana Center for the Arts, said Oliver's passion, commitment and "deep knowledge of South Louisiana" will help in planning and expanding programs.
The center has a theater, galleries, rehearsal and office space. Its goal is to foster arts and culture in the region.
