Dearborn Community Arts Council Announces New Executive Director

The Dearborn Community Arts Council has named Ralph Valdez as the organization's new executive director, according to a DCAC news release.

"I'm extremely excited to support and promote the artists of this community and the good work of the many vibrant, creative and cultural arts groups with which the DCAC assists, connects and networks,” he said in a statement. 

Valdez previously served as the curator of cultural programming at Dearborn's Arab American National Museum from 2007-2009, where he coordinated the world music diversity festival Concert of Colors. He also served as the underwriting sales manager, program host and producer at WDET, as well as account executive at WUOM--the two largest public radio stations in the state, according to the news release.

Valdez hopes to continue to serve the Metro Detroit arts community through his new role with DCAC.

 “I’m dedicated to our region’s spirit of renewal and revitalization, as well as the untapped creative and vast cultural life of Wayne County and Southeast Michigan,” Valdez said. “I look forward to seeking out opportunities to share, learn and grow with DCAC.”

Valdez will officially begin his role in January 2014. Stella Greene, DCAC's current executive director, will retire at the end of the year after seven years with the organization, the report said.