Story By: Meg Wallace

COLUMBIANA, Ala. — The Shelby County Arts Council has welcomed a new director this year after the former director, Bruce Andrews, retired in December.

University of Montevallo alumni Greg Stone started his position as executive director earlier this year. This is not his first position at the Shelby County Arts Council, however.

“After I retired from teaching, I came here to work part time because I thought well, I’m retired, I’ll work part time,” says Stone.

Stone originally left to pursue other career opportunities but eventually returned when he saw the director position was opening.

“I applied for it, and I got it!” Stone says.

Working for the arts council previously has given Stone an advantage in his new position. He is familiar with the staff and has a deeper understanding of how the arts council runs.

I applied for it, and I got it!

Greg Stone

“It’s been great because thankfully I know most of the staff from previously being here and kinda the usual day to day flow of things,” says Stone. “On the other side, there’s so much more for me to learn now that I’m in this seat instead of that seat out there.”

While Stone is still adjusting to his new position, he has exciting goals for the Shelby County Arts Council now that he sits in the directors chair.

“The biggest goal I have is marketing and getting the word out about where we are, what we do, and how you can plug in an be involved whether it’s a student, volunteer, or whatever kind of role,” Stone says.

The Shelby County Arts Council is always welcoming new volunteers of all ages. Stone says he especially loves how the arts council brings together people from different walks of life. Visit their website for more information on volunteering, classes, and events.