Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge Appoints Jonathan Grimes as New President and CEO

The Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge is pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan Grimes as their new president and CEO, effective immediately. Grimes has been a member of the council’s staff since June 2007 and has held various roles including events manager, chief systems officer, and executive vice president.

In his current position as interim president and CEO, Grimes played a significant role in the design and construction of the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center. He is currently involved in directing the Festival of Lights and Red Stick Revelry, as well as overseeing the River City Jazz Masters project. In addition, he sits on the boards of the Downtown Business Association and Live After 5.

Todd Sterling, the council’s board chair, expressed confidence in Grimes’s ability to fill the shoes left by Renée Chatelain who held the position for eight years before announcing her departure in November 2023. “We are thrilled to have Jonathan as our new president and CEO,” said Sterling. “His experience, leadership skills and passion for the arts make him an excellent fit for this role.”

Grimes will be formally introduced as the new president and CEO at the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge’s annual meeting on May 23 at the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center.