SAN JOSE, CA--(MARKET WIRE)--May 9, 2008 -- The City of San Jose today announced that Kerry Adams Hapner has been named director of the San Jose Office of Cultural Affairs.

In her new role, Adams Hapner will oversee a 19-member staff working in four primary areas: public art, special events, arts grants and arts education. Additionally, she will collaborate closely with City departments, the arts community, the San Jose Arts Commission, philanthropic foundations and 1stACT Silicon Valley to advance San Jose as a vibrant center of arts, culture, and creativity.

Prior to joining the City of San Jose, Adams Hapner was manager of cultural affairs for the City of Ventura, where she guided implementation of that city's cultural plan and led initiatives in the areas of cultural tourism, arts education, public art, special events, facility development and technical assistance to arts organizations.

Adams Hapner also has experience as a fine art gallery coordinator, art appraiser and consultant to other municipalities on arts grant programs. She is a native of San Jose, and holds a bachelor's degree cum laude from University of California, Los Angeles in art history and business administration.

"I am excited to lead a highly committed staff and join with the arts community in the ongoing development of San Jose as a vibrant, authentic cultural community and destination," said Adams Hapner. "Born and raised in San Jose, I have a strong connection to the city, its residents, history and sense of place."

Adams Hapner's appointment was made following a national search and selection process guided by a team including representatives of the arts community.

"Strong interest was expressed nationally to our call for a dynamic director to lead the Office of Cultural Affairs and be the chief advocate charged with advancing the arts and cultural life of the urban heart of Silicon Valley," said Paul Krutko, chief development officer, City of San Jose. "As global competition intensifies among innovation-based regions, it is crucial for San Jose to cultivate a distinctive arts and cultural environment that contributes to a high quality-of-life. Given Kerry's experience, we feel she is the right person to do this and are delighted to welcome Kerry to our City of San Jose team," Krutko said.

A key component to San Jose's overall economic strategy, the Office of Cultural Affairs is part of the City's Office of Economic Development. Together, they foster cultural and economic development that are synergistic for building San Jose as the creative center of Silicon Valley.

"Kerry impressed the search committee with her track record of results, her interpersonal skills, and her passion for the arts and San Jose. She will advance the distinctive cultural life of the City, which is essential for attracting and retaining creative talent and businesses," said Sharon Gustafson, chair, San Arts Commission.

Adams Hapner will be introduced to the arts community at the Arts Commission Community Reception, May 12, 6:00 p.m., at the San Jose Institute for Contemporary Art. Adams Hapner officially assumes her new role May 21.

ABOUT THE SAN JOSE OFFICE OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS

The Office of Cultural Affairs is part of the City's Office of Economic Development. Together, they foster cultural and economic development as related strategies for building San Jose as the creative center of Silicon Valley. The Office of Cultural Affairs coordinates services for outdoor events and festivals, offers financial support for arts and culture providers, supports arts education, and leads the development of public art works throughout the city.

ABOUT THE CITY OF SAN JOSE'S OFFICE OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The City of San Jose's Office of Economic Development (OED) is committed to a vital, competitive San Jose economy that increases prosperity for people and companies and enhances City revenues. The Office guides the City's economic strategy, provides assistance for business success, helps connect employers with trained workers, and provides art and cultural resources to our community. For more information, please visit www.sjeconomy.com.

ABOUT THE CITY OF SAN JOSE

From its founding in 1777 as California's first city, San Jose has been a leader, driven by its spirit of innovation. Today, San Jose stands as the largest city in Northern California and the Capital of Silicon Valley -- the world's leading center of innovation. The city, the 10th largest in the U.S., is committed to remaining a top-ranked place to do business, work, live, play and learn. For more information, visit www.sanjoseca.gov.

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