The International Bluegrass Music Association has announced that interim director Nancy Cardwell has been named as the Executive Director of the organization. She has been serving in this role since Dan Hays left IBMA in March of this year.
Nancy has spent 17 years with IBMA, starting when they were located in Owensboro, KY. She has filled a number of roles during that time, most recently Special Projects Director, which found her responsible for the IBMA newsletter. In her free time, Nancy has also authored a book, The Words & Music of Dolly Parton, Country’s Iron Butterfly, which was published last year.
Her bluegrass background is as a performer, and her pre-IBMA career was in education. She holds a degree in Education from Northwest Missoui State University.
Board chair Stan Zdonik says that Cardwell is the right one for the job.
“After an extensive selection process that began with more than 65 applications for the position, the Board concluded that Nancy brings the right mix of skills to the table and will be able to take the organization to the next level of success.
Nancy is deeply connected to the bluegrass music community, and her experience in the IBMA office makes her uniquely prepared to take on the added duties of Executive Director. She is forward-thinking and has the right outlook to take us into the future. Her respect for the roots of the music, combined with her appreciation of the next generation, will guide the organization through the challenging times ahead.”
Cardwell accepted the job with humility.
“It’s an honor to continue to serve on the IBMA team in this new role as we work together for the future of bluegrass music. I’m blessed with a creative and hard-working staff and board of directors, as well as a community of members from across the country and around the globe, who are passionate about the greatest music in the world. I look forward to seeing many of you at World of Bluegrass in Nashville, Tenn. Sept. 24-30, at our annual Business Conference/ Awards Show/ Bluegrass Fan Fest/ Music Family Reunion!”
Thus closes a long chapter for IBMA, transitioning to new leadership as they prepare for their last World of Bluegrass week at the Nashville Convention Center.
