Mission and Purpose
The Department of Cultural Affairs has primary responsibility for development of the state's interest in the areas of the arts, history, and other cultural matters. In fulfilling this responsibility, the department is advised and assisted by its two divisions: the State Historical Society of Iowa and its board of trustees, and the Iowa Arts Council.
The department's director is Cyndi Pederson, who is appointed by the governor, subject to confirmation by the senate, and serves at the pleasure of the governor.The department has primary responsibility for development of the state's interest in the areas of the arts, history, and other cultural issues. In fulfilling this responsibility, the department will be advised and assisted by the State Historical Society of Iowa and its board of trustees, and the Iowa Arts Council board.
The department is responsible for:
- Developing a comprehensive, coordinated, and efficient policy to preserve, research, interpret, and promote to the public an awareness and understanding of local, state, and regional history.
- Stimulating and encourage throughout the state the study and presentation of the performing & fine arts and public interest and participation in them.
- Implementing tourism-related art and history projects as directed by the general assembly.
- Designing a comprehensive, statewide, long-range plan with the assistance of the Iowa Arts Council to develop the arts in Iowa. The department is designated as the state agency for carrying out the plan.
- Encouraging the use of volunteers throughout its divisions, especially for purposes of restoring books and manuscripts.
- Divisions of the Department of Cultural Affairs.
The department consists of the following divisions:
- Historical division (State Historical Society of Iowa)
- Arts division (Iowa Arts Council)
- Other divisions created by rule
- Administrative section
The director may create, combine, eliminate, alter or reorganize the organization of the department by rule.
The department by rule may also establish advisory groups necessary for the receipt of federal funds or grants or the administration of any of the department's programs.
The director:
- Organizes the activities of the division.
- Submits a biennial report to the governor on the activities and an evaluation of the division and its programs and policies.
- Controls all property of the division.
- Performs other duties imposed by law.
