BC Arts Council welcomes new council chair, reappoints eight members

Categories: News

Nicholas Simons has been appointed as the new chair of the BC Arts Council, effective August 1, 2026.

Nicholas Simons, Chair of the BC Arts Council

Nicholas Simons is a dedicated public servant and accomplished professional whose career has spanned social work, government, academia, and the arts. He has a Master of Arts from Simon Fraser University and a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of Ottawa. For a decade, Nicholas served as Director of the Department of Health and Social Development for the shíshálh First Nation. In 2005, Nicholas was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Powell River – Sunshine Coast, a position he held until October 2024. Throughout his tenure, he played key roles in shaping policy and advocating for vulnerable populations. Beyond his public service, Nicholas is passionate about music and the arts. He has performed as a cellist with the Vancouver Chamber Players, Kamloops Symphony, and Prince George Symphony; he previously served as President of the Sunshine Coast Arts Council and is currently President of the Pacific Region International Summer Music Association (PRISMA). He continues to share his musical talents as a private cello instructor. Nicholas Simons’ career reflects a lifelong commitment to community, advocacy, and the enrichment of public life in British Columbia.

 

We are also pleased to announce the reappointment of the following council members:

  • Nika Collison (Skidegate)
  • Carey Fouks (Vancouver)
  • Marnie Hamagami (Prince George) – Vice Chair
  • Toby Lawrence (Victoria)
  • Melissa Lee (Vancouver)
  • Tonya Martin (New Westminster)
  • Brian McBay (Vancouver)
  • Smokii Sumac (ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa – East Kootenay)

The BC Arts Council extends our sincere appreciation to Marnie Hamagami for her service, expertise and leadership as interim chair since December 2025. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to outgoing member Buk Nkosi for his service and to former chair Sae-Hoon Stan Chung for his transformational leadership and contributions.

“I am pleased to welcome Nicholas Simons as chair of the BC Arts Council and to reappoint eight dedicated council members,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “I would also like to thank vice chair Marnie Hamagami for her leadership and dedication as interim chair. This council brings valuable experience, leadership and diverse perspectives that will continue to support artists, strengthen communities and advance reconciliation and inclusion throughout British Columbia.”

Please visit our website for more information about council members and the appointment process.