Newfoundlander Cheryl Hickman says she’s honoured to be taking over as chair of the Canada Council for the Arts.

Hickman, the general and artistic director of Opera on the Avalon, will begin her five-year term in July.

She notes the council’s mandate is to help foster production of works in the arts, with grants, services and various initiatives to support the arts and artists.

“What it’s meant to do is contribute to the vitality of a very creative and diverse arts and literary scene,” she said.

“So it has significant impact economically and socially and it really supports greater engagement in the arts from coast to coast and contributes to the international recognition of Canada’s artists and arts organizations.”

Hickman, an accomplished soprano, also served on the board of Opera.ca, and has performed with companies across North America and Europe.

She has been recognized for her work by ArtsNL and in 2023 was named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs by Atlantic Business Magazine.

The Canada Council for the Arts is governed by an 11-member board. It consists of a chairperson, vice-chairperson and nine other members from across Canada. Along with the director, who is also the Chief Executive Officer, board members are appointed by the Governor in Council.