It is with deep gratitude that I have submitted my letter of resignation to the board of directors for Homer Council on the Arts, effective June 30, 2015. 

Opportunity is the operative word of the HCOA mission: providing opportunities for everyone in the community to experience and participate in the arts. And opportunity is what HCOA has so graciously offered me. I have learned so much, grown so much, and discovered the art of administration. I want to thank the HCOA board and the people of Homer for embracing me with warm and welcoming arms. 

 Simultaneously with my decision to resign, Denise Jantz, my fabulous office assistant, accepted a full-time position at the Kachemak Heritage Land Trust. Without a doubt, HCOA will miss Denise, but we are truly excited about this opportunity, and wish her the very best. Genie Hambrick, our dedicated marketing and development assistant, will hold the tiller as we shift the sails. 

HCOA is at an exciting crossroads. The foundation of HCOA is solid, and the climate of Homer is changing. Between the near completion of the Parks, Arts, Recreation and Culture (PARC) needs assessment, the advocacy of Homer Arts and Culture Alliance (HACA), Homer City Mayor Beth Wythe initiating conversations about collaboration, and MAPP (Mobilizing for Action through Planning and Partnership) introducing the strategy of collective impact, the possibilities are wide open and exciting.

Homer Council on the Arts is creating a search committee not only for staff but also for board members and volunteers to assist in individual areas of interest, as well as working toward the future. This is a great time to get involved and help shape the future of HCOA and the arts in Homer.

 I am excited to see what unfolds and am committed to assisting the process until I depart in June. Thank you, Homer. I have truly enjoyed serving this amazing community through the arts.

Gail Edgerly is the executive director of the Homer Council on the Arts. After leaving HCOA, she will explore more of Alaska this summer, then head back east to join her college roommate for travels in Europe. Their plan is to spend the winter in a warm and sunny villa.