Director Biographies

Michael Pangburn

Michael Pangburn joined the South Dakota Arts Council staff in 1998 as arts education coordinator and assumed additional duties as assistant director in 1999. In that position he managed the Artists In Schools & Communities Program and other arts education activities and supervised the grant application review process. He was appointed acting director following Dennis Holub’s retirement in January 2009 and became Executive Director in April.

Prior to joining the SDAC staff, Pangburn served as a governor-appointed member of the State Arts Council from 1984-1998. He was the Council's Chair from 1991-1993 and at various times during his tenure chaired the Council’s Theatre Panel and Arts Education Committee. 

A native of Miller, SD, Pangburn holds a teaching degree in English and theatre and did his graduate work in curriculum and instruction. He taught high school drama, speech, and English for 20 years and has directed more than 60 school and community theatre productions.

Immediately prior to joining the professional staff of the State Arts Council, Pangburn was the executive director of the Spearfish Center for the Arts and Humanities at the Matthews Opera House in Spearfish, SD. He has served on the boards of directors of numerous arts and civic organizations. In his spare time, he performs regularly with two Pierre-area vocal groups, Surprise Package and South Madison Street Blues.