BPAC Director Search Ongoing

Replacement sought while season continues Following the departure of former Executive Director, Lauren Powell, in early September the Bologna Performing Arts Center is currently focused on finding her replacement while keeping a busy fall schedule running smoothly. According to Dr. Edwin Craft, Delta State University’s Vice President for Finance and Administration which oversees the center, “One of the many great things about BPAC is that we have a fantastic staff on hand. Both the front of the house and back of the house operations are going well, with Holly Senter handling the front side and Lloyd McDowell handling the technical, back side of BPAC. Those two are running the day-to-day operations and, of course, our Fall season was booked some time ago and we’re looking forward to having The Village People perform here on Thursday night. Craft said artists for next year’s season have already been booked, with other contracts in negotiation, while the search for a new Executive Director continues. “Holly is doing most of that right now and we haven’t skipped a beat,” he said.  The search for Powell’s replacement has been advertised nationally in trade magazines and publications, said Craft, and many applications have already come in to DSU.  “When a job of this level becomes available, we utilize our hiring committee to screen and interview applicants,” said Craft. “Dr. Myrtis Tabb is chairing this search/hiring committee, which is only logical given her long term role in, and relationship with, BPAC. Among the 6-8 members of the committee are Nan Sanders, Tricia Walker, 3 people within the University and other prominent, local members of the community.” Craft said the committee is looking for the best talent available for the open position. “After the committee narrows down the choices, I will then sit in as an ex officio to listen, without comment, to the interviews — whether on Zoom or face-to-face — and then offer my opinion. Of course, before any actual hire is made the applicant must conduct a personal meeting with me and the search committee. A recommendation will then be made by the committee which I’ll review and I, ultimately, will make the final decision on who is selected.” The timeframe for a new hire, Craft said, will probably be about six months. “We’re not rushing this process at all because the new Executive Director needs to be the perfect fit,” he said. “And, with our season ongoing and work already taking place for next year’s season — with the Spring shows to be announced in November — there’s no reason to bring in someone immediately.” BPAC is one of the best theaters in Mississippi, said Craft. “So, this is an attractive job position,” he said. “And we will work hard to find the right person and continue to bring outstanding, diverse shows to the Delta.”