ACC names new executive director

The American Craft Council's board of directors hired Christopher H. Amundsen as its new executive director, effective May 10.

"We are honored to have Chris at the helm of our organization, leading us through this exciting transition for the council," says Leilani Lattin Duke, the board's chair, in a news release. "His impressive accomplishments at United Way and his extraordinary leadership skills will help ensure the long-term vibrancy of the council, as well as build on our foundation as the national voice for contemporary American craft."

Amundsen has been the COO of the Greater Twin Cities United Way since 2004. He is a Minnesota native and graduate of the University of Minnesota and has a public accounting and finance background, according to the ACC.

Amundsen is taking over for interim executive director Helene Blieberg. He will be responsible for strategic direction, external relationships and fund-raising, board and executive committee relations, membership growth and development, communication and public relations, and administration for the nonprofit educational organization. He will also oversee the organization through its transition as it relocates offices from New York City to Minneapolis this summer.

For information, visit www.craftcouncil.org.