Americans for the Arts’ President and CEO Nolen V. Bivens issued the following statement on the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of President Joseph R. Biden’s nomination of Shelly C. Lowe as the next chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH):

“The NEH plays a vital role in promoting knowledge of, and appreciation for, the arts and humanities in America. With a long history of personally seeing how the humanities can help sustain and strengthen individuals, communities, and institutions, Chair Shelly Lowe begins her role already understanding that the arts and humanities are a transformative, powerful force in our lives, communities, and schools, and must be supported. I congratulate Chair Lowe not only for taking on this important public service role, but also for becoming the nation’s first Native American to serve as chair of the NEH.

“The Senate confirmation comes at a critical time when our nation’s humanities workers are recovering from the pandemic that devastated the arts and culture sector. Chair Lowe will begin her service with a strong agenda to expand opportunities for all Americans to participate in and benefit from humanities-centered research, education, and public programs. With her extensive experience in leadership and higher education, paired with a deep commitment to supporting the preservation of America’s rich traditions, history, and culture, Chair Lowe will undoubtedly make her mark leading the critical work of the NEH. I applaud President Biden’s choice of Chair Shelly Lowe and look forward to working with her in the years to come.”

Americans for the Arts is a nonprofit organization that advances the arts and arts education advocacy in America. Based in Washington, D.C., it has a record of more than 60 years of service. Americans for the Arts is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for everyone to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Additional information is available at www.AmericansForTheArts.org.

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