Lorna Kneeland has been named the new Executive Director of PONCHO, the area’s leading organization for support of the arts.

Kneeland started as a consultant to assist PONCHO with organizational transition.

People started PONCHO 47 years ago during a difficult economic time to save the arts in Seattle.

“Finding ourselves in a similar financial climate, PONCHO is needed today more than ever, as many arts programs struggle to keep themselves viable,” Kneeland said.

Kneeland brings more than 12 years in sales and marketing management expertise in the hospitality industry and most recently led the Marsh Rivkin Center for Ovarian Cancer Research fundraising efforts. Kneeland serves on the Foundation Board of Governors for Swedish Medical Center and Junior League of Seattle.