The Fairfield Arts & Convention Center announced Tuesday that Executive Director Lindsay Bauer will step down from her role effective May 1st, 2026, after nearly six years leading the organization.
Bauer, who began her tenure in July 2020, has accepted a new professional opportunity and will be relocating to Kansas City. She took the helm of the Center during one of the most challenging periods in its history, guiding the organization through the COVID-19 pandemic and leading its recovery into a period of renewed growth and community connection.
During her time at the Center, Bauer launched the Cinema Fairfield program in 2022 and created the Sally Rinehart Johnston Arts in Education Program, which has provided meaningful arts experiences for area students. During the pandemic and early years of recovery, she also introduced a free outdoor summer concert series featuring Iowa artists, offering a space for community gathering at a time when it was most needed. The series was retired in 2025 as other local summer programming returned, reflecting the Center’s commitment to complementing the broader arts ecosystem rather than competing with it. In recent years, the Center has seen significant growth in attendance and engagement, welcoming audiences from across the region and strengthening its role as a hub for arts, culture, and community life in Southeast Iowa.
Bauer expressed gratitude for her time with the organization and the community she served. “I have accepted a new opportunity that feels like the right next step for me and my family, and this decision comes with a very full and grateful heart,” Bauer said. “Serving this community has been one of the great privileges of my life. Together, we’ve built something truly special — a place where people gather, connect, and experience moments of joy, curiosity, and shared meaning.”
Bauer said she takes comfort in knowing the organization is in good hands as she moves on. “Because of your support, the Center is in a strong and steady position,” she said. “Our leadership team is fully in place and actively guiding day-to-day operations, and the Board of Directors will be undertaking a thoughtful search for the next Executive Director.”
She closed with a message to the community she has served for nearly six years. “This work has always been about loving well, spreading joy, and building a powerful community of curious and kind adventurers here in Southeast Iowa,” Bauer said. “That foundation is strong, and it will continue.”
Board President Rachel Hillier praised Bauer’s leadership and the foundation she leaves behind. “While we are sorry to see Lindsay leave, we are deeply grateful for her leadership and the transformative impact she has had on the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center,” Hillier said. “She leaves the organization on strong and steady ground, with a capable team and a clear path forward. The Board looks forward to building on this momentum as we begin the search for our next Executive Director, and we wish Lindsay every success in her next chapter.”
The Center’s leadership team will continue to guide day-to-day operations during the transition, ensuring continuity of programming and services. The Board of Directors has initiated a search for the organization’s next Executive Director. Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume and cover letter to executivesearch@fairfieldacc.com.
Photo courtesy of the Jefferson County Trails.
Edited with more information.
