BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BRANSON ARTS COUNCIL OFFICERS:
President –Lana Johnson-Nichols
Secretary — Marilyn Droke
CFO –Robert Cohn
Executive Director–Bonnie Herrmann
Board Members
Richard Hibben, Becky Laverty, Brooke Lewis, Bob Nichols, Barb Nygard, Arlene Schaefer, Marguerite Steffen, and Jack Walker
Meet the Board
Robert Cohn is a former merchant, 2 years president of Newton, Iowa community Theatre, Rotary president, Jaycee President, Toast Master Club President, as well as a former Trust officer. He has also been the CFO of the Branson Arts Council as well as a former president of the Branson Arts Council.
Becky Laverty, Becky was raised in Iowa on a working farm. Her major in college was Interior Design, with emphasis in housing and color. She graduated from Iowa State University. She moved to Kimberling City and since then has owned a floral shop as well as worked for two other floral businesses in Branson just to name a few of retail work experiences. Her dad instilled in her a need tgo preserve the past, education for the future, and the importance of family. She now lives in a histgorical home in downtown Branson and loves to garden and do yard work.
Richard Hibben, The Hibbens visited Branson years ago and made a decision to retire to this wonderful area. A former Los Angeles Fireman, both Richard and his wife Part are artists. Moving to Forsyth, they exhibit their oil paintings in area Art & Craft Shows. Dick now has added Wire Art Jewelry and Astrophotography to his hobbies. They have been active members of the BAC for several and display at Branson Fest each year.
Lana Johnson-Nichols is the owner of Touch of Class, a formal/bridal shop in Branson. Lana spent several years in Branson as a performer and is married to Bob Nichols, who formerly hosted the Showboat Branson Belle and is currently hosting “County tonite”. They have one daughter, 14 year old Chesca. Lana is currently serving as Vice President of the BAC.
Barbara Nygard, Retired owner of Silverhills Jewelry and Collectibles. Barb has served as a City Alderman, officer of the Engler Block Merchants Association, President and currently secretary of the Branson Arts Council. A community minded citizen, always willing to help and support the arts.
Arlene Schaefer, Arlene has been instrumental in the development of the new addition to the Taneyhills Library, serving on their board and as president. She also has been a past board member of the BAC. Arlene is very involved in the community and continues to support the arts and cultural activities for Branson residents.
Marguerite Steffen always has time for the BAC. She volunteers at Skaggs Hospital, the Chamber and many other community projects. Marguerite and her husband Larry are very visible in the community and participate in most all the events and activities.
Jack Walker. He has a B.S. degree in Communications from the University of Tennessee. He has 15 years experience in broadcasting and 17 years of management experience in municipal goverfnment, including five year booking talent and marketing a performing arts center that consistently operated in the black. He also was the managing partner of Big River Events, a full-service event management and talent booking company. Jack has served numerouos volunteer leadership roles in community groups both in Tennessee and here in Branson.
Bonnie Herrmann, A retired professor with the University of Wisconsin, Bonnie has extensive experience in the world of non-profit, having been the Director of the Non-Profit Institute for the University. She served on the BAC Board of Directors for two years before becoming the Executive Director. She has also been involved with the Wilderness Road Festival in Kimberling City and other community activities that support the appreciation of art and culture