Some changes are afoot at Grand Center Inc., a nonprofit established to support the success of institutions and organizations that call the Grand Center Arts District home.
Karin Hagaman, who has served as Grand Center Inc.’s president and CEO since September 2015, will be stepping down at the end of the month.
“I am proud of our accomplishments at Grand Center Inc. During my four years as president & CEO, the organization has brought an unprecedented level of attention to and appreciation for St. Louis’s world-class arts district through our marketing and advocacy work,” said Hagaman, in a news release by Grand Center Inc. “Today, Grand Center Arts District has never been stronger and Grand Center Inc. is poised for great success. I look forward to continuing to support the organization.”
Hagaman’s departure is effective Aug. 31, 2019. The announcement from Grand Center Inc. gave no reason for her leaving the top post, and there’s no word on Hagaman’s replacement in the role of president and CEO. Rich Simmons, the organization’s director of operations, will manage Grand Center Inc.’s day-to-day operations.
“We are most fortunate to have Rich’s leadership and the benefit of his experience at this time,” GCI chairman of the board Don Lents said in a statement. “He will continue to help us drive GCI’s ongoing activities forward. On the eve of GCI’s annual gala this September and our 40th anniversary in 2020, we have much to be proud of and want to thank Karin for her service to GCI and wish her all the best.”
