Forrester has volunteered at the Haywood County Arts Council for the last two years as a gallery docent and member of the volunteer committee. Before moving to Waynesville in 2015, Forrester was executive director of Bright Holidays, a Jacksonville, Florida nonprofit serving underprivileged children. 

In addition, Forrester served as director of development for over 20 years at various nonprofit educational institutions in Jacksonville as well as a board member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, First Coast Chapter. Forrester is a graduate of Sweet Briar College in Virginia. 

“The board is confident that Leigh will bring the expertise to lead the Arts Council as it begins its fifth decade in promoting art, artists, and arts education,” said President of the Board of Directors Michael Lodico. 

Forrester will work alongside the board of directors and volunteer committees to continue the implementation of several popular programs including the Junior Appalachian Musicians, Student Honors Recital, Mind the Music, Artist Membership, DANCE ARIS, Young Artist Concert and Sunday at the Opry. 

This year, the Haywood County Arts Council will also co-sponsor the HCC Professional Craft Artist Summit and the Big Band Concert at Tuscola High School. The HCAC recently launched the Artist Coffee & Chat and will be scheduling additional artist workshops, talks and demonstrations.

For more information call 828.452.0593, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.haywoodarts.org.