Malissa Feruzzi Shriver, Chair, California Arts Council, today announced the appointment of Craig Watson as the new Director for the state agency. Watson's appointment represents the first time in the nearly 30-year history of the state agency that the Director has been hired directly by the Council rather than by appointment of the Governor. Watson is currently the Executive Director of the Arts Council for Long Beach, and will start with the California Arts Council on August 15, 2011.

"We are ecstatic to find an individual of Craig Watson's caliber to fill this critical position who will work with the members of the Council, staff and elected officials to advance the work of the agency on behalf of the arts throughout all of California," said Feruzzi Shriver. "Craig brings a unique blend of arts, business and community service experience to this key leadership position."

Watson has an extensive background in the private, public and non-profit sectors.