The Board of Directors of the Mimbres Region Arts Council announces the appointment of Kevin A. Lenkner as its new Executive Director. Lenkner €™s career in the arts began as a volunteer in an arts-based youth development summer program. After graduating from York College of Pennsylvania with a degree in Political Science and double minor in Philosophy and Peace Studies, Lenkner was hired as the first full time employee of YorkArts, an arts education-based nonprofit. Lenkner served 22 years at YorkArts, the last 14 as Executive Director. During his tenure, YorkArts acquired a 3,500 square foot arts center housing a premier exhibition gallery, studio rentals, classrooms and pottery studio. Most recently, Lenkner completed a $1.5 million dollar capital campaign for the organization to retire debt, renovate and expand classrooms and develop a satellite campus.

Lenkner first visited New Mexico in 2006 on a fellowship to attend composer Pauline Oliveros’ Deep Listening Retreat. Held in the Sangre de Christo Mountains above Las Vegas, Lenkner became enchanted with New Mexico. The people, the natural beauty, the art, history and the food, brought Lenkner back regularly.

Lenkner plans to continue his pursuit of creative-based youth development, equitable access to the arts and arts-centered approaches toward cognitive development of students of all ages. MRAC’s core events and activities are valuable launching points for extended learning in the arts. "It has been a great pleasure getting to know Kevin and his family throughout the interview and hiring process. We feel confident in the wealth of knowledge and experience Kevin will bring with him as he takes the helm of the Arts Council. We look forward to having Kevin and his family join our community come September, and leading the MRAC into its bright and promising future,” states Board President, Ashleigh Garcia.

Lenkner will be joined in Silver City by his wife, Kathleen, and 4-year-old son Kieran. Lenkner will begin full-time with the MRAC September 1, 2015.

The Mimbres Region Arts Council is a leader in building communities inspired, enriched, and strengthened by the power of the arts. We provide quality programs that foster an appreciation and understanding of the arts, serve as a resource for artists and cultural entrepreneurs, and positively impact the area’s economy by creating and supporting events and experiences that enhance the region’s appeal as a premier destination.

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