Peggy Baggett has been serving the arts in Virginia for over two decades, and through seven Governors. As administrative leader for Virginia's Commission for the Arts, Peggy is charged with the oversight, development, and granting of initiatives throughout the state. Last year the Commission helped to make possible over 31,000 arts events for the public with a combined attendance of 9.8 million people.

State arts agencies across the country are experiencing budget crises that threaten the survival of many arts programs, and in some cases the agencies themselves. But Peggy has proven her ability to weather the storm.

Four Questions for Peggy

In one sentence, describe what you do...
"I plan and oversee all of the work of the agency, work with the board and with state officials, and create partnerships with a wide range of groups from history museums to libraries."

What is the most rewarding part of your professional work?
"Having regular contact with wonderful and talented people in every part of the state who produce the arts, volunteer for the arts, or do the administrative work of the arts."

What is the most challenging?
"Keeping an eye on and understanding the changing political and social environment while making sure the day-to-day stuff gets done."

How does your graduate business training inform how you work?
"My graduate training helped me to focus on the big picture and understand the value of collaborative work. The longer I am in this field, the more I draw upon the principles of the arts administration program."

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