The Cowichan Valley Arts Council welcomes Elizabeth Croft to the managing director’s seat on March 20, to manage two galleries and an array of programs and collaborative art initiatives.

“With her strong communications and management skills, Elizabeth will be a real asset to CVAC,” said CVAC President Janet Magdanz. “The CVAC Board and members will all look forward to exploring new opportunities together.”

Well known in the region as the former events and membership manager for the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce, Croft was previously self employed as a video producer, publisher and communications consultant. Most recently, she was the director of grant management for the Cowichan Intercultural Society. She has also been a local school trustee since 2014.

Croft has degrees in communications from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) and Royal Roads University, as well as a diploma in adult education from the University of Alberta.

The new managing director is replacing Susan Down, who is retiring from the position she has held since 2020 during a period of rapid expansion.