DES MOINES – Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) Director Mary Cownie announced her departure Monday afternoon. Her last day at the department will be Thursday, August 17, 2017.
“We have all benefitted from Mary’s mission to stress the significance of our quality of life in Iowa and its role as an economic driver,” Gov. Reynolds said. “She has done a wonderful job at the Department of Cultural Affairs, and while we will greatly miss her, we will continue to feel the impact of her work for years to come. I wish her all the best.”
“Mary has done an outstanding job of advancing arts, history, film and culture in Iowa during her time as director of the Department of Cultural Affairs,” Lt. Gov. Gregg said. “Her efforts to raise awareness about the department’s mission have extended to each of Iowa’s 99 counties. I wish her nothing but the best in her future endeavors and thank her for her dedicated service to Iowa.”
“It’s been an incredible experience to serve Ambassador Branstad, Gov. Reynolds and Lt. Gov. Gregg and represent Iowans and this great state,” Cownie said. “I am grateful for this opportunity and appreciate the hard work and dedication of the team at the Department of Cultural Affairs.”
Former Gov. Terry Branstad appointed Cownie to the post in January 2011 where she oversaw the administrative functions and programs of the department, along with the Iowa Arts Council, State Historical Society of Iowa and the Produce Iowa office.
DCA Deputy Director Chris Kramer will serve as acting director until a new director is named.
