Organization also announces new office in Minneapolis's Grain Belt Brewery building

New York, NY (Apr. 13, 2010) - The American Craft Council's board of trustees today announced the hiring of Christopher H. Amundsen as the organization's new Executive Director, effective May 10.

"We are honored to have Chris at the helm of our organization, leading us through this exciting transition for the Council," said Leilani Lattin Duke, Board Chair. "His impressive accomplishments at United Way and his extraordinary leadership skills will help ensure the long-term vibrancy of the Council, as well as build on our foundation as the national voice for contemporary American craft. Chris' experience at the highest levels of national and regional organizations will also bring new constituencies to us from the Minneapolis community and beyond."

Chris Amundsen has built a distinguished 29-year career in both the financial and nonprofit sectors. Currently the Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Twin Cities United Way since 2004, Amundsen oversees business operations, planning, system and operational strategies for the nation's third largest United Way. Amundsen began his tenure at United Way as an executive with United Way of the St. Paul Area, Inc., and from there moved to United Way of America in Alexandria Virginia. In 2001, Amundsen was named United Way of America's Interim President and CEO, leading the nation's largest private sector charitable system with 1,400 local affiliates that raised $3.9 billion to improve the country's communities. He led the United Way's system response to the September 11 attacks as well as the organization's communications effort in response to that day's crisis. Amundsen is a Minneapolis native and graduate of the University of Minnesota and has a public accounting and finance background.

"Our extensive national search, conducted by Korn/Ferry International and an eight-member search committee, introduced us to many extremely qualified professionals. Chris clearly topped that list," said Board Secretary and Search Committee Chair Susan Cummins. "His proven capabilities in strategic planning, organizational thinking, fundraising, and his commitment to craft and making as a way of life will help lift the organization to new heights while offering a fresh and different perspective."

Mr. Amundsen will officially begin his new position on May 10, taking over for interim executive director Helene Blieberg who has held the position since June 2009. He will be responsible for strategic direction, external relationships and fundraising, board and executive committee relations, membership growth and development, communication and public relations, and administration for the nonprofit educational organization, whose mission is to champion craft. He will also oversee the organization through its transition as it relocates offices from New York City to Minneapolis this summer.

"I am grateful to the American Craft Council Board for this opportunity" said Mr. Amundsen, "I look forward to working with the board, staff, and the entire craft community to ensure this organization has a dynamic and impactful presence not only to our own constituents, but the entire arts world. While my professional experience has been in other sectors, I have a primary understanding for and appreciation of the role art plays in the lives of individuals. Taking this position is the perfect blending of my skills and interests."

The Council also announced that office space has been leased in anticipation of the upcoming relocation to Minneapolis. The Council's new offices will be located in the Grain Belt Brewery building in the Sheridan neighborhood of northeast Minneapolis. The Council intends to occupy its new space beginning August 1.

Ms. Duke commented, "We are thrilled to have found the most appropriate space to house our offices and library. All aspects of Grain Belt Brewery, including its historic significance, location in an up and coming arts district, and economic feasibility ensure the Council will fit comfortably in its new city and be able to continue its mission of championing contemporary American craft. It truly is an exciting time for the organization."

Russ Nelson, of Nelson, Tietz & Hoye who brokered the transaction, stated "We considered many locations for the American Craft Council, based on their space needs, nature of the organization, and budget. The Grain Belt space seemed like the perfect fit. It is well maintained and managed, and will provide a comfortable and professional atmosphere for the Council and its employees."

The building is a historic landmark in Minneapolis. It was renovated to accommodate offices nearly three decades after the Grain Belt Brewing Company relocated to St. Louis in 1975 by Ryan Companies, who remains the building landlord. The Council will lease and share space with current tenant RSP Architects. "To have an organization of such national cultural significance occupy our space is a genuine honor," said Dave Norback, President of RSP Architects, the Council's new landlord. "We look forward to welcoming the American Craft Council as tenants once their move completes this summer."

About the American Craft Council
The American Craft Council's mission is to champion craft. As a national, nonprofit public educational organization founded in 1943 by Aileen Osborn Webb, the Council actively promotes the understanding and appreciation of contemporary American craft through its bimonthly magazine American Craft, annual juried shows presenting artists and their work, leadership conferences, awards for excellence, research library, workshops and seminars. For additional information visit www.craftcouncil.org.