Announcing Ben Ahlvers as Executive Director

The Lawrence Arts Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Ahlvers as Executive Director.

Ben has twenty years of experience in various capacities at the Arts Center in the areas of Exhibitions, Education, and Operations, and has served as Interim Executive Director this past year. As a nationally recognized ceramicist, he brings a breadth of experience to the table, including a deep knowledge of artist resources and the current landscape of contemporary art, as well as organizational administration.

“The Board is thrilled that Ben has agreed to stay on as the permanent Executive Director of the Lawrence Arts Center. His long tenure with, and love for, the Arts Center, as well as his strong ties to the community, make him an ideal person to lead the organization. Ben has demonstrated strong leadership and implemented positive changes while serving as the Interim Director, and we’re excited about the next chapter.” – Amy Lee, Lawrence Arts Center Board Chair

Ben is excited to work in this official capacity and to build upon the more than fifty years of legacy the Arts Center has established in Lawrence, Kansas. “I’m incredibly grateful to have been considered for this position. There is a long and rich history of dedicated, creative people who have helped establish this unique organization in the community, and I’m proud to be a part of that,” said Ahlvers. “I’m ready to do the work and look forward to serving in this role.”

The Lawrence Arts Center’s mission is to ensure art is for everyone through education, exhibitions, and performances. The organization invites community members to celebrate its new leadership at the upcoming Art Auction on April 11 and to share well-wishes with Ben while visiting the galleries or attending art classes and events this spring.