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News Media Contact:
Amy Grossmann
staff@ncfolk.org
Amy Grossmann to Lead Organization Celebrating North Carolina’s Cultural Traditions
RALEIGH, N.C. (August 20, 2025) – The North Carolina Folklife Institute (NCFI) is proud to announce the appointment of Amy Grossmann as its new Executive Director. Grossmann brings a wealth of experience in cultural heritage, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership to the Institute, which has served as a champion of North Carolina’s diverse folklife traditions since 1974.
A respected leader in cultural research and presentations, Grossmann previously served as Chief Executive Officer of the North Carolina Folk Festival, where she led initiatives that elevated traditional arts and deepened community connections. Her work has consistently focused on uplifting underrepresented voices, preserving traditions, and cultivating cross-cultural understanding, values that align deeply with the mission of NCFI.
“We are thrilled to welcome Amy Grossmann as our new Executive Director,” said André Nabors, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Her passion for North Carolina’s rich cultural traditions and vision for the future will guide the Institute into an exciting new chapter.”
In addition to her appointment, Grossmann was recently awarded an Archie Green Fellowship from the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. This national fellowship will support her project documenting the occupational culture of professional firefighters in Greensboro, North Carolina, through interviews and field research marking the 100th anniversary of the city’s professional fire department.
Since stepping into the role, Grossmann has taken the Institute under her wing to lead a comprehensive website redesign and a logo and brand refresh. These efforts aim to create a more engaging, accessible, and modern platform for sharing North Carolina’s folklife stories, strengthening NCFI’s connection to the communities it serves while honoring the organization’s history.
“I am honored to join the North Carolina Folklife Institute” said Amy Grossmann. “North Carolina’s folklife is vibrant, diverse, and deeply rooted in the state’s identity. I am excited to continue building on NCFI’s strong foundation by expanding our reach, strengthening our community connections, and modernizing how we share these stories.”
The NCFI extends its deepest gratitude to outgoing Executive Director Sarah Bryan for her years of dedicated service and leadership.
To receive program updates and website launch news, email staff@ncfolk.org or follow @ncfolk on social media.
About the North Carolina Folklife Institute
The North Carolina Folklife Institute is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting, and presenting the folklife of North Carolina. Through documentation, education, and advocacy, the Institute works to support the traditional cultures and communities that shape the identity and history of the state. Learn more at www.ncfolk.org.
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