Americans for the Arts’ President and CEO Nolen V. Bivens issued this statement following the announcement that Tsione Wolde-Michael has been named Executive Director of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (PCAH): 

“Tsione Wolde-Michael’s vast experience bringing diverse voices into public dialogue to lead strategy and engagement for PCAH comes at a critical time when the creative sector is still finding its footing in the aftermath of the pandemic and quality arts education programs remain limited or unavailable in many schools.  

“Tsione’s new role as Executive Director is a great opportunity for our nation. I have no doubt that under her leadership, and through her deep understanding of the arts, humanities, diversity, equity, and inclusion – particularly through the lens of community – PCAH will provide the research and policy evaluation needed to help strengthen arts education, the creative economy, and the cultural sector; and contribute to the health and wellbeing of our nation’s communities.  

“I congratulate Tsione for not only taking on this crucial role, but also for being the youngest and first Black individual to serve as Executive Director of PCAH. On behalf of Americans for the Arts, I look forward to working with Tsione and the committee to address the unique challenges and opportunities for the arts and humanities around the country.”  

Americans for the Arts is a nonprofit organization that advances the arts and arts education advocacy in America. Based in Washington, D.C., it has a record of more than 60 years of service. Americans for the Arts is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for everyone to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Additional information is available at www.AmericansForTheArts.org.