New York, N.Y., November 18, 2025 — 4A Arts – the American Alliance of Artists and Audiences – proudly announces the election of North Carolina civic leader and Chatham County Commission Chair Karen Howard to its Board of Directors. Howard’s appointment reflects 4A Arts’ continued growth in grassroots organizing efforts that transform arts consumers into arts advocates.
“I’ve seen how the arts empower people throughout my community—and especially my own children,” said Ms. Howard. “My son achieved a breakthrough with his autism when he discovered the theatre and found his voice. 4A Arts’ mission to inspire creativity and civic connection is something every community can benefit from.”
“This marks an exciting turning point for our organization,” said Board Chair Luis R. Cancel. “As we evolve from a founder’s board into a strategic growth board, Ms. Howard brings real-world experience helping 4A Arts amplify creativity’s role in American life.”
“4A Arts is pioneering a national effort to make creativity a civic priority,” said Executive Director Gavin Lodge. “Ms. Howard’s expertise in public service will help us expand our reach, strengthen partnerships, and build an interdisciplinary movement to ensure the arts are recognized as essential to America’s wellbeing.”
Ms. Howard is Chair of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners and serves on multiple boards, including the National Inclusion Project and the Governor’s Crime Commission. Appointed to the North Carolina Oil and Gas Commission, she also serves as liaison to the Chatham County Economic Development Corporation and the Chatham Arts Council. A graduate of Georgetown University and The University of Buckingham, Howard is also an accomplished watercolor artist and poet whose latest collaboration, Welcome to Death Faire, features short stories and poetry.
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