The Soul of the City has found its new leader- Executive Director Named to the Local Arts Historical Institution

The King Arts Complex (KAC) has announced that its Executive Director will be formally presented to the Central Ohio community next week at the annual King Arts Gala on Saturday, May 15th.  Sheryle Powell, who as been serving since December in the position as Interim, will transition into the role as its steward.  The assignment to replace former Executive Director, Dr. Barbara Nicholson, was initiated last year and ultimately ended with the strongest candidate working within the organization.  The search committee voted unanimously in its selection of Sheryle Powell.  KAC Board Chair Larry James states “It became quite apparent that our next leader had already begun the job of advancing the organization.  Sheryle is proactive, prepared and passionate in her commitment to both the arts and the community”.

Ms. Powell, who’s no stranger to service, formerly serving with the United Way of Central Ohio, has been trained for this opportunity since childhood.  Sheryle has developed deep roots within the arts.  She is a trained vocalist, Mezzo-Soprano, who sometimes performs for the Governor’s events.  She’s taken center stage in sharing her singing talents at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium and the Ohio Theater.  She is internationally traveled as a participant in a Campus Touring Choir.  Sheryle takes every opportunity to enjoy theater as she’s witnessed over 20 Broadway plays and musicals.  What was once Sheryle directing youth productions, will now result in her directing the vision for what’s been labeled as the soul of the city.

Sheryle will transfer both her appreciation of the arts along with operations acumen to lead the historical KAC to higher heights.  It’s been said that… “to everything there is a season”, and Sheryle Powell is prepared for this moment.  Sheryle shares, “I could not have been afforded a greater opportunity to serve alongside other Central Ohio leaders in the arts community.  Columbus has a rich tradition that allows the King Arts Complex to educate, showcase the talents of local and national artists and provide resources to Central Ohio families.”

With the welcomed journey that lies ahead, it appears Sheryle may be doing fewer events at The Ohio Governor’s Residence and Heritage Garden.

For additional information, contact Kimberly Blackwell at (614) 487.1500

About King Arts Complex:

For the past two decades, The King Arts Complex has served as a jewel in the Central Ohio Arts Community, located just minutes from downtown in one of the oldest, African American communities in Columbus, OH.  The King Lincoln District remains true in its mission of enriching and improving the quality of life in our community by offering performing, cultural and educational programs that focus on the rich heritage and contributions of African Americans to America and the world, while building bridges of understanding and harmony among all people.

For more information on the King Arts Complex call 614-645-KING (5464) or visit our website