Debra Soule
Courtesy Photo
Visit Carson City in June announced the hiring of Debra Soule as its new Arts & Culture Program Manager.
Soule brings more than 20 years of experience to the role, having worked in municipal and state government positions in Australia, Canada and the U.S., according to a June 15 press release.
“Debra brings expert knowledge and experience to the Carson City arts and culture community,” David Peterson, executive director of Visit Carson City, said in a statement. “She understands the importance behind broad community and business involvement in cultural planning and in cultural programs. I am confident that she will cultivate strong working relationships to further develop the areas of cultural tourism, arts administration and public art, which are critical pillars of our community.”
Prior to joining Visit Carson City, Soule was a cultural planning consultant working with several cities and municipalities in Ontario, Canada. She was also the economic development coordinator of arts, culture and heritage for the City of Kawartha Lakes.
Soule undertook doctoral studies in economic development at York University, has a master’s degree in community social planning, and a bachelor’s degree in social psychology from the University of Guelph.
“I know from experience that cultural programs, events and businesses transform communities,” Soule said in a statement. “Not only do they boost quality of life and vibrancy, a thriving cultural scene also attracts talent and entrepreneurs, attracts visitors, invigorates the local economy and reshapes a city’s overall image.
“My goal is to enable creativity to flourish in Carson City by aligning people, resources and projects and by strengthening collaboration between municipalities, cultural sector organizations, businesses and the broader community based on a shared vision.”
