New Executive Director: Robert Dailey
The Chehalem Cultural Center board of directors chose Robert Dailey, interim director of the Santa Fe Children’s Museum, to be the next executive director of the Chehalem Cultural Center. He succeeds Paul Lipscomb, who has served as interim director since December.
“The Center is in an exciting place right now,” Dailey said. “So much work has been done, from the visioning of the beautiful building to assembling the talented staff. The possibilities are truly limitless. With the positive energy of the board of directors and some very achievable goals in front of us, I look forward to the challenge.”
Dailey was selected from a nationwide field of over 100 applicants in a rigorous selection process conducted by the board search and selection committee. He was the unanimous choice of the 11-member board.
Dailey brings broad experience in the arts and nonprofit fields. He recently stepped into the role of interim director of the Santa Fe Children’s Museum, having served as its deputy director since January 2009. His responsibilities include managing day-to-day operations, finance and personnel, as well as strategic planning and fund raising.
Prior to coming to the Children’s Museum, Dailey directed the finances and operations for the Santa Fe Desert Chorale and spent two years as chief operating officer of a start-up company focused on online ticketing. Dailey has served on the board of directors of Grandstreet Theatre, a nonprofit community theater in Helena, Montana.
Dailey holds a bachelor of Liberal Arts in English Composition and Literature from the University of Alaska in Juneau. He is a published author and playwright
“We are excited about the strong leadership skills, creativity and energy Rob will bring to the Cultural Center,” said Kris Horn, board chairwoman. “He has clearly caught the vision and sees the possibilities for the Center’s future and the special role it will play in our community.” Robert is slated to start July 1, 2012.
Interim Director: Paul Lipscomb
For the past 11 years Paul has focused his work on providing interim executive leadership and executive transition services helping organizations work through the challenges and opportunities in leadership transition and organizational change. His goal is bringing clarity to roles and structures while building cooperative relationships. Paul’s passion is assisting organizations committed to developing learning teams and shared leadership models and he brings extensive experience to that passion. Paul has experience with a variety of cultures and organizations and over the last 8 years includes extensive experience working in rural Oregon communities.
Educational Coordinator: Karen White
Karen White is an avid sculptor, environmental installation artist, photographer and writer who utilizes and emulates nature as the source of her creativity. She incorporates her philosophies of sharing art experiences with the public in her on-site installations, teaching artist series and writing. Karen is also the Educational Coordinator at the Chehalem Cultural Center where she infuses her creative vision into programming. Karen enjoys daily hikes, beach walks, investigative studies, and creativity. For more information about Karen and her artwork visit her website: www.kwsculptures.com
Administrative Coordinator: Caleb Thurston
Caleb Thurston (Administrative Coordinator) has been involved in the non-profit arts world for most of his life. Holding a degree in theatre arts from George Fox University, Caleb is the co-founder and executive director of Valley Repertory Theatre. He is originally from St. Helens, Ore. where he also founded River City Children’s Theatre in 2004. He lives in Newberg with his wife Heidi and lots of books.
Marketing Coordinator: Lauren Wylie
Lauren’s passion for the Chehalem Cultural Center stemmed from growing up in its previous entity, Central School. She has been a part of it’s vast transformation from the beginning and is excited to bring her talents and community ties to the future of the arts in the Willamette Valley. Lauren is a graduate from the University of Texas at Austin with a degree in Communications (Radio, TV & Film) and a minor in Architecture. Lauren handles all marketing, web development, and graphics for the Center as well as for ART Elements Gallery in downtown Newberg. For more information about Lauren and her portfolio of work please visit: www.laurenwyliestudio.com.
