Mayor McLean Names New Arts & History Director

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean has named Jennifer Stevens the city’s new Department of Arts & History Director, pending confirmation from city council on Tuesday, August 30.

“We are very lucky that someone of Jennifer’s caliber has accepted my offer to lead the Department of Arts & History,” said Mayor McLean. “As a Boise-based historian, previously serving the city in numerous commissioner capacities, Jennifer will keep up the department’s momentum and work closely with the team to further elevate the important role history, arts and culture play in our community.”

Stevens is the founder and president of Stevens Historical Research Associates (SHRA), a consulting firm located in Boise, Idaho. She has over 25 years of experience providing historical research consulting to a wide range of clients. Her work involves archival research in repositories around the country, including the National Archives, state and municipal archives, and corporate and private collections.

“I’m thrilled that the city has found someone with the background and talent of Stevens to lead our Arts & History department. She will provide deep experience, applied knowledge and expertise on a wide range of issues, including environmental history and land use, water and transportation history, urban planning, and research in support of commemorative events,” said Council President Elaine Clegg.

In addition to her consulting work, Dr. Stevens is a Professor of the Practice in the History and Urban Studies Departments at Boise State University. Her civic involvement includes five years as a member and two years as chair of Boise’s Planning and Zoning Commission, and five years as a member and three as chair of Boise’s Historic Preservation Commission.

"It is an honor to be selected to lead the Department of Arts & History, which I view as a critical public-facing agency with immense opportunity to reach both new and existing residents through artistic and interpretive celebration of our diverse and rich heritage,” said Dr. Stevens. “Arts & History should serve as a cultural hub in Boise, offering a platform from which arts and history organizations throughout the city can collaborate. I look forward to working with the team and our cultural community to find even greater opportunities for meaningful connections to our residents.”

Pending confirmation, Jennifer will take over for Interim Director and Parks and Recreation Director, Doug Holloway, in early September.

You can watch Dr. Stevens’ confirmation process at tomorrow’s city council meeting in-person or online.