Welcoming our new Executive Director

The Willa Cather Foundation Board of Governors has announced that Ashley Olson, Associate Executive Director, will assume the position of Executive Director beginning April 21. This announcement comes as Leslie Levy, current Executive Director of the Willa Cather Foundation, has been named Executive Director of the International Quilt Study Center and Museum in Lincoln.

"We thank Leslie for her work at the Willa Cather Foundation, and wish her well as she transitions into her new role," said Tom Gallagher, President of the Willa Cather Foundation Board of Governors. "The Board of Governors is thrilled to have Ashley move into the role of Executive Director and we have full confidence that this transition will be smooth and seamless."

"Ashley will do a remarkable job as the Executive Director of the WCF. The experience and knowledge she has gained as the Associate Executive Director has provided her the perfect foundation from which to further her career as Executive Director," said Leslie Levy, Executive Director.

Olson joined the Foundation staff in 2008 and has served as Associate Executive Director since 2010. She is a native of Red Cloud and a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln with a degree in Business Administration.

"I am honored that the Board of Governors has given me the opportunity to lead the Willa Cather Foundation, and I look forward to guiding our talented staff as we prepare to expand our facilities and continue the work of preserving Willa Cather's legacy," said Olson.