Hope, Ark. – The Southwest Arkansas Arts Council announces Jennifer Block as new Executive Director, assuming that position in January. Block will take on administrative duties for the Arts Council, as well as working with the board of directors to bring programs and performances to the Hempstead County area that will benefit all residents. In addition to administrative work, she will be focusing on grant writing and growing the Council’s program base.

“I am very interested in ensuring that area youth have opportunities to be involved in drama. One of the goals I will work on through the Council is the availability of drama and community theater productions for school-aged students,” Block stated.   

Formerly employed at Rainbow of Challenges, Block has lived in the Hope area for the past 11 years. Before Hope, she called Russellville home after many years of living in various areas due to her father’s military service. Block comes to the Arts Council with nearly 19 years of nonprofit, fundraising and grant writing experience. She has enjoyed being a part of Thrive Hempstead County, the Hope Grown Podcast, SWActors Community Theater Group and being a former board member for the Arts Council.

“I am very excited for this new beginning! It is an opportunity for me to merge both worlds that mean so much to me -- nonprofit work and art,” she exclaimed. Block said she enjoys acrylic painting, pencil/ink drawings, photography, pottery and making jewelry.    

For more information, contact Jennifer Block, Executive Director, Southwest Arkansas Arts Council. 870-777-8200 or [email protected].

Website: www.swa-artscouncil.squarespace.com

Location: 200 Division Street Hope, AR 71801

The mission of the Southwest Arkansas Arts Council (SWAAC) is to enrich our community through experience, expression, education in all the arts.