CSPS Hall names Heather Kuchar Sams executive director after four-month search

CSPS Hall announced Tuesday that Heather Kuchar Sams has been named executive director of the nonprofit arts organization, ending a roughly four-month search by the board of directors. Sams began the role earlier this month.

The appointment follows the April resignation of Jason Zbornik, who led the organization for more than two years. At the time, CSPS said the transition would support the organization's ongoing growth and evolving needs.

Sams will oversee strategic direction, financial sustainability and community partnerships. She joins an existing leadership team that includes Anna Patty, development and communications manager, and Catherine Lane, performing arts manager.

"I fell in love with CSPS the moment I moved to Cedar Rapids," Sams said in a statement released by the organization. "I'm honored to join an organization with such a rich history and passionate supporters. I look forward to working alongside our talented team, board, artists, volunteers and community partners to continue expanding access to exceptional arts experiences while ensuring CSPS Hall remains a welcoming place where creativity and community thrive."

Board Chair Adam Burger called the hire "another sign of progress and growth for CSPS."

Patty said the board was impressed by Sams' experience leading large arts organizations, including her own company, and her work supporting nonprofits through critical transformations.

Sams moved to Cedar Rapids from Florida over a year ago. She previously served as a child advocate through Florida's Guardian Ad Litem program and owned and operated HAS Art Solutions, which managed art displays under a $3.5 million annual portfolio. She has served on multiple nonprofit boards, including the JAX Chamber Board of Trustees in Jacksonville and Go Red for Women.

The leadership change comes after CSPS Hall completed a $300,000 capital campaign. The venue, located at 1103 Third St. SE in the New Bohemia district, has been a fixture of the city's arts scene for decades.