The scandal-rocked Fresno Arts Council named a new executive director Monday, and she’s coming from the Kingsburg Chamber of Commerce.

The nonprofit alliance’s leader will be Lauren Nikkel, who is credited with piloting the Kingsburg Chamber through difficult times.

“I am excited to join the Fresno Arts Council at a pivotal moment in its history,” said Nikkel in a news release. “I look forward to stepping onto the floor with our region’s incredible creators and partners to shape Fresno County’s cultural arts future.”

Fresno Arts Council board President Olga Gutierrez De Nuñez said: “Lauren is the right leader to guide the Fresno Arts Council into its next chapter. We were looking for someone who values collaboration, community, and the arts, and we are confident Lauren will build on that vision.”

Nikkel Takes Over After $1.8 Million Embezzlement

Nikkel succeeds Lilia Gonzáles Chávez, who stepped down after an FBI investigation into former operations manager Suliana Caldwell, who was accused of embezzling $1.8 million.

The theft included arts council funding as well as taxpayer dollars from the city of Fresno’s Measure P parks and cultural arts tax.

Caldwell pleaded guilty in April in a deal with federal prosecutors. She is scheduled for sentencing in federal court on Aug. 10.

How to Apply for Measure P Grants

The arts council no longer administers Measure P grants as the city has taken over that responsibility.

The application period is underway. Those interested in applying must first complete an eligibility screening form due by 3 p.m. on Aug. 15. Final applications are due at 3 p.m. on Sept. 30.

More information about the grant program is available through the city of Fresno’s website.

Questions about the grant program can be emailed to: ExpandedArts@fresno.gov

More About Nikkel

Nikkel’s background includes regional economic development, workforce strategy and cultural arts organizing, according to arts council leaders. In addition, she has “a strong track record of transparent public stewardship, fiscal oversight, and strategic partnership building.”

Nikkel is a social dancer and she believes that experience will foster success in her new position.

“Connection, conversation, authentic expression, and nimble improvisation make for the best social dances — and for the best partnerships,” Nikkel said.