Cascadia Art Museum Names Leigh Ann Gilmer Executive Director

​We are pleased to announce the appointment of Leigh Ann Gilmer as the new Executive Director of Cascadia Art Museum.

​Leigh Ann began her career at the Museum of Northern Arizona and has since held leadership roles at the Museum of Glass and Seattle University before her tenure at the Museum of Pop Culture and Conservation Northwest. She is passionate about the role that cultural organizations play in bringing people together and building a strong sense of community. ​

“I’m thrilled to join the team at Cascadia Art Museum at such a significant time in the history of both the museum and our region. As Washington’s population continues to grow, we have an incredible opportunity to share the vibrant legacy of the artists who made the Northwest a known destination for creativity,” said Leigh Ann.

“After a thorough search, Cascadia is happy to welcome Leigh Ann to the museum. She was selected from a pool of over 50 well-qualified applicants----the large number is in itself a tribute to the credibility that Cascadia has earned over the past 3 ½ years of operation,” said museum president Lindsey Echelbarger.

“The future of Northwest art begins in the past, and there’s no limit to Cascadia Art Museum’s potential to inspire artists and arts lovers of every age,” Leigh Ann said.

About Cascadia Art Museum

Opened in the fall of 2015, Cascadia Art Museum (Cascadia) is one of the nation’s newest art museums, serving the Pacific Northwest as a voice and showcase for the region’s art history. The museum is dedicated to Northwest art during the period of 1860-1970 and maintains an active program of temporary exhibitions and public outreach to carry out that mission.

The museum provides enriching experiences for the community and visitors alike through original exhibitions, public programs, publications and educational outreach. With five galleries, a multi-purpose education room and a gift shop, the 11,000 square foot museum is part of the adaptive reuse of one of Edmonds’ most iconic, mid-century modern buildings.

With approximately 13,000 annual visitors, a membership base of 1,300+ and incredible community support and participation, Cascadia has enjoyed a very successful first three years but is still very much in start-up mode.

​About Valtas Group

Valtas Group works as Interim Executive Directors, supporting organizations in times of transition and helps organizations navigate uncertainty during leadership change.  
 
Valtas Group also leads the search process in partnership with the board and staff leadership, as consultants for recruiting and search to support organizations identify the ideal Executive Director or leader.
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Valtas Group partners with board members and senior nonprofit leaders on a variety of strategic consulting assignments. Valtas Group has a variety of comprehensive resources to guide your transition needs.  Contact us to learn about executive interim and placement services.