The Mobile Arts Council has announced that Angela Browning Montgomery has been chosen as its new executive director.

Montgomery follows Lucy Gafford, who said in mid-March that she planned to resign at the end of April and “pivot towards devoting more time to my artistic career.” Gafford had worked with the arts council for more than 10 years and had served as executive director for nearly five.

According to information released Tuesday by the council, Montgomery has worked with the organization since 2017, serving as its development director. She previously worked as programs director and executive director of the Alabama Coastal Foundation and has 15 years of experience with nonprofits.

“I am honored and excited to be selected as the Mobile Arts Council’s next executive director,” Montgomery said in an announcement from the council. “The arts have the power to inspire, educate, and unite us, and I look forward to continue working with the talented team at MAC to further our mission and make a positive impact on the Mobile community.”

“We are thrilled to promote Angela as our executive director as she brings with her an innate understanding of our organizations mission,” said Kim Sweet, president of the MAC Board of Directors. “Her appointment ensures that MAC’s impact will continue to grow, affording meaningful opportunities for local artists, successful collaborations with local and statewide arts agencies, and education outreach that inspires future generations to continue the expressive landscaping of our cultural heritage.”

Montgomery will begin work as executive director on April 29. For more on the organization, visit mobilearts.org.