Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas appoints new executive director

The Arts & Science Center for Southeast Arkansas board has appointed Celeste Marie Alexander its next executive director.

Alexander begins her tenure April 1, bringing more than two decades of leadership, education and arts experience, according to a news release.

A native of Pine Bluff and longtime volunteer, Alexander has been an integral part of the ASC family for more than 20 years. Her contributions include performing in stage productions, serving on ASC’s performing arts committee, participating in fund-raising efforts, and serving on ASC’s endowment board.

In 2024, she was honored with ASC’s Good Egg Award for outstanding volunteer service, according to the release.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Alexander as our next executive director,” said Iry Rice, chairman of the ASC board of trustees. “Celeste’s strong leadership, deep roots in Pine Bluff, and unwavering dedication to the arts and education make her the ideal person to lead the Arts & Science Center into this next chapter.”

Alexander has dedicated herself to serving the community, according to the center.

“She has cultivated strategic partnerships, secured grant funding, designed impactful professional development, and championed arts and STEM education initiatives that have positively influenced countless students, educators, and community members,” according to the release.

Alexander holds a doctorate in educational technology and leadership from Pepperdine University, a master of arts in teaching degree from the University of Arkansas at Monticello, and dual bachelor of arts degrees in mathematics and radio/television/film from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She also earned a certificate in theology and ministry from Princeton Theological Seminary.

“It is truly an honor to serve an organization that has been so close to my heart for most of my life,” said Alexander. “The Arts & Science Center has given me the joy of performing, the privilege of volunteering, and the opportunity to grow alongside a community of incredibly talented and kind people. I am excited to continue ASC’s mission of enriching lives through the arts, science, and education, and to help ensure it remains a vibrant cultural hub for Southeast Arkansas.”

Scott Robinson, vice chairman of the ASC board of trustees, applauded the selection.

“Dr. Alexander is a dynamic leader with an impressive blend of professional experience and genuine passion for ASC and the Pine Bluff community,” Robinson said. “We are confident that under her leadership, the center will continue to thrive and expand its impact for generations to come.”

The executive director appointment follows Alexander’s history of educational leadership. She comes from the Arkansas River Education Service Cooperative in Pine Bluff, where she was teacher excellence coordinator and special projects coordinator for the past six years. Previously, she was a mathematics specialist and instructor at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff and at the Pine Bluff School District.

ASC will host a public reception in April to welcome Alexander into her new role. Details about the event will be announced soon.

Since its founding in 1968, ASC has served as a cultural anchor in the region. It is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a distinction held by only 1,114 institutions. Under the ARTx3 Campus umbrella, the organization operates three downtown Pine Bluff facilities — the Arts & Science Center, The ARTSpace on Main, and ART WORKS on Main — which together host exhibitions, performances, classes and community events.

For details, visit artx3.org or follow ASC on social media.