JACKSON, MISS. – April 28, 2022 – The Mississippi Arts Commission has named Marie Sanderson, of Ocean Springs, as Board Chairman. Sanderson has served on MAC’s Board since 2013, previously serving as co-chair. She was elected Board Chair following the untimely passing of Steve Edds, who served three terms as MAC Board Chair during his tenure.

Marie Sanderson is currently a founding partner of P2 Public Affairs, a specialized communications and strategy firm, and partner at Global Policy Persuasion Public Affairs (GP3) the largest public affairs firm in the country,  which brought together the best entrepreneurs in the industry under the same roof with a united vision to serve as a one-stop bipartisan shop for clients’ public affairs needs. Many of Sanderson’s previous businesses pioneered this new and innovative new company. She has also served as a policy advisor to former Gov. Haley Barbour and legislative assistant and deputy press secretary for Sen. Thad Cochran.  

In addition to her work with the Mississippi Arts Commission, Sanderson is PTO president of her children’s school and serves on the board of directors of the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Mississippi. She and her husband Brian founded the MS 30 Day Fund in 2020, which provides forgivable small business loans to small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Though we are saddened at the loss of dedicated, long-time board member and Board Chair Steve Edds, we welcome Marie to the post,” said Sarah Story, executive director of the Mississippi Arts Commission. “Marie is a strong advocate for the arts who brings extremely valuable skills and experience to the role. We are very fortunate to have her in our corner.”

The Mississippi Arts Commission is governed by a 15-member volunteer Board of Commissioners. Bringing expertise in the arts, business and community affairs, the Commissioners represent the citizens of Mississippi and are appointed by the governor to five-year terms. The Commissioners meet quarterly to establish program objectives, recommend budgets, assess needs, evaluate program effectiveness and award grants. All Commission meetings are open to the public.