Nicole Fougère

Meet our Incoming Executive Director – starting August 15 2026

Nicole Fougère is an arts leader, artist, and enthusiastic community builder with more than 25 years of experience in cultural programming, creative leadership, and multidisciplinary arts practice.

She most recently served as Executive Director of the Rotary Arts Centre (RAC) in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador. Working closely with staff and board, she led efforts in strategic and business planning, financial stewardship, and organisational development for a vibrant community arts hub. During her time at RAC, the arts centre delivered concerts, theatre, film, exhibitions, workshops, and artist development opportunities, while deepening its commitment to accessibility, Indigenous and multicultural collaboration, and meaningful public connection.

Previously, Nicole was Programs Director at artsPlace in Canmore, Alberta, where she led a wide range of community arts programming and helped create welcoming, inclusive spaces for people to connect through creativity. Earlier, she enjoyed many years with Learning Through the Arts at the Royal Conservatory of Music, where she developed and led arts education programs across Canada and internationally, supporting artists and educators in bringing creativity into classrooms and communities.

She is known for innovative program design, warm and collaborative leadership, and creating spaces where artists and communities feel at home.

Nicole is also a dancer, storyteller, and writer, and brings her artistic practice into everything she does. She loves long-distance hiking and time in the mountains, and has explored trails and landscapes around the world.

She is thrilled to bring her creativity, curiosity, and deep love of community into her role as Executive Director of H’art Centre.