2022.09.30 - IACA Announces New Leadership

Today, we are excited to announce that Nora Daley will serve as the new Board Chair of the Illinois Arts Council Agency. This appointment by Governor JB Pritzker is effective immediately.

From Governor Pritzker:

“I’m delighted to appoint Nora Daley as Chair of the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Nora has devoted her life to educating others about the wonders of art and culture. Her vast experience and commitment to the arts will serve our state well as she takes on the responsibilities as the next Chair of this vital council.”

From Nora Daley:

“The arts serve as a crucial component in the lives of every Illinoisan. I am thankful to Governor Pritzker for this appointment, and I look forward to partnering with him in enacting creative measures to continue our steadfast support for artists and the sector in Illinois.”

In addition to her role as chair, Daley serves on the board and executive committee of After School Matters and Steppenwolf Theatre Company. Daley also serves as the Vice Chair of the Terra Foundation for American Art and is the former chair of the City of Chicago Cultural Advisory Council. She received a B.A. in Art History from Fairfield University and lives in Chicago with her husband and three children. With her renowned arts, civic and philanthropic leadership, she will help the agency envision new and diverse initiatives as we continue to provide a variety of grants and services that will benefit all of Illinois.

We would also like to thank former board Chair, Rhoda A. Pierce for her expert leadership during the past year and we are pleased that she will continue to serve on the Illinois Arts Council Agency board of directors. Over the past 36 years at the Illinois Arts Council Agency, Rhoda served in various capacities, including staffer, Deputy Director, and Executive Director. Supporting the arts and artists in Illinois has been her life’s work.

From Rhoda A. Pierce:

“It was a tremendous honor to be named Interim Board Chair by Governor Pritzker. Now, it is my great pleasure to congratulate Nora Daley on being named Board Chair by the Governor this week. I very much look forward to continuing to serve on the Board and to work with Nora, who has the experience, the passion, and the skills to lead the Council as we all look forward to an even brighter future for the arts in Illinois.”

The IACA acknowledges ongoing support from the National Endowment for the Arts.