Pictured: Fawn Hernandez, AcA Deputy Director
Photo Credit: Jason Cohen
LAFAYETTE, LA – Acadiana Center for the Arts announces the hiring of Fawn Hernandez as its first Deputy Director. Hernandez joins the professional staff of the AcA, led by Executive Director Samuel Oliver, who recently celebrated 5 years in his role.
“Fawn Hernandez brings 15 years of non-profit management experience to the Acadiana Center for the Arts and will fill a critical role in AcA’s expansion of services through the Let Culture Lead initiative” says Oliver. “As Deputy Director, Fawn will drive strategic initiatives to increase the impact of the organization as envisioned in our strategic plan Vision 2030.”
AcA introduced Let Culture Lead in September as a $18 Million initiative to expand the role of artists, musicians, and cultural organizations in advancing education, economic development, and placemaking across Acadiana. One major project of the initiative is the creation of the Louisiana Music Museum, which was first announced in late 2021.
Most recently, Hernandez served as the Vice President of Administration for Boys & Girls Clubs of Acadiana with a focus on elevating business operations and expanding the organization’s service to more youth across the state.
“I’m delighted for the opportunity to help lead an organization as well-respected and mission-driven as the Acadiana Center for the Arts,” says Hernandez. “I look forward to working with the capable staff and strong board of directors to further enhance the organization’s operations, fulfill the robust strategic vision, expand our community partnerships, and grow the organization’s impact.”
A native of Lafayette, Hernandez received her MBA from Louisiana State University after obtaining her undergraduate degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Earlier this year, she was recognized as the Louisiana Boys & Girls Clubs Professional of the Year and a recipient of Acadiana’s Top 20 Under 40 Professional Leadership award. She currently serves as the Treasurer for the Board of Directors for Girls on the Run South Louisiana and was appointed as the Lafayette Parish representative for the commission that oversees the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area.
An avid runner, Hernandez holds the fastest known female time on the 223- mile Ouachita Trail and offers several ultra distance trail race opportunities throughout the state through her company Second Growth Running Company.
