TOArts has appointed Victor Fakrogha, Aerin LeDuc-Gummeson, and Dr. Michael Hart to its Board of Directors, expanding the organization's leadership with expertise spanning finance, arts advocacy, and higher education. The appointment reflects TOArts' continued commitment to strengthening arts access, community engagement, and long-term organizational impact across the region.

Victor Fakrogha brings more than 25 years of leadership in the banking industry and a longstanding dedication to economic and community development. As Senior Vice President and Market Manager at Community West Bank and Vice Chair of the National Diversity Coalition, has built a career advancing opportunity for local businesses and communities. His perspective strengthens TOArts' capacity to align cultural programming with broader economic vitality.

"The arts are essential to a thriving community and local economy," said Fakrogha. "I'm honored to support TOArts' in expanding access to meaningful cultural experiences for people throughout the region."

Aerin LeDuc-Gummeson is a writer, arts advocate, and founder of the LeDuc-Gummeson Foundation for Learning, with deep roots in entertainment marketing, as well as civic and cultural leadership. Her prior service includes roles on the New West Symphony Board, the Thousand Oaks Library Board, and the TOArts Programs Committee. LeDuc-Gummeson's career reflects a sustained commitment to education, creativity, and inclusive public engagement.

"TOArts plays a vital role in shaping how people connect with the arts in our community," said LeDuc-Gummeson. "I'm excited to collaborate with fellow board members to expand opportunities for creative discovery for audiences of all ages."

Dr. Michael Hart brings extensive experience in arts education for academic leadership. He serves as Associate Dean for the Creative and Performing Arts and Associate Professor of Music at California Lutheran University, where he combines curriculum leadership with active teaching and performance. His appointment further deepens TOArts' connection to arts education and institutional partnerships.

"The arts are a powerful catalyst for learning, connection, and personal growth," said Dr. Hart. "I look forward to helping TOArts continue to inspire creativity and broadening the reach of its workforce development programs."

The organization also expressed deep appreciation for Janet Scherr, who served on the Board for eight years, most recently as Secretary, and Sean Rendineo, who served for three years, recognizing their lasting contributions to TOArts' success and growth.

In addition, TOArts announced Karen Davis as the organization's new Board Secretary, whose professional expertise and commitment to the arts further strengthen the leadership team.

"We are profoundly grateful for the service of our outgoing board members and energized by the vision and experience our new leaders bring," said Niki Chopra Richardson, Executive Director of TOArts. "Together, this expanded board positions TOArts to grow its impact, support artists, and ensure the arts remain accessible, vibrant, and central to community life in Ventura County and beyond."

For more information about TOArts and its initiatives, please visit www.toarts.org .

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About TOArts

TOArts is the nonprofit fundraising and presenting partner of the Bank of America Performing Arts Center at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza with a vision to make our community a place Where the Arts Thrive for All. TOArts delivers high-quality arts exposure to youth and world-class performances to the region, and provides vital support for local artists and nonprofit performing arts groups. For more information, please visit www.toarts.org , and follow TOArts on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn .