HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- K Alferio is retiring after 18 years serving as the president and CEO of the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen in Henrico County. On Tuesday, March 31, Henrico County announced in a press release that, after 18 years of service and contributions to the art community, K Alferio, the president and CEO of the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, is retiring, effective January. Alferio has been vital to the arts community by growing and supporting programs and engagement from within Henrico County and the Richmond region. "Her commitment to accessible arts experiences and reaching underserved communities leaves a lasting impact on patrons, artists and colleagues alike," the release stated. The Cultural Arts Center has offered performances, exhibits, outreach programs and educational opportunities for the community. With guidance from Alferio, the program's mission of “building community through the transformational power of the arts" has grown, per a release. During her time with the organization, she has overseen several performance series, built outreach programs for children, such as art classes within youth detention centers, and recognized art programs for people with dementia and their caregivers. “Serving the community through the arts has been a joy and is a privilege,” Alferio said in a release. “I am grateful for all the talented artists, dedicated staff, willing volunteers, insightful board members and supportive patrons who make the Cultural Arts Center a magical place. I truly love the center, and it will always be a major part of who I am.”  Alferio's dedication and commitment have been recognized through several honors and distinctions. “For 18 years, K Alferio has embodied arts advocacy at the Cultural Arts Center of Glen Allen,” said Leslie Olma, chair of the center’s Board of Directors, in a release. “Her leadership and vision have helped nurture a creative ecosystem that is educational in purpose, inclusive in outreach and consistent in its care for artists and audiences alike. With deepest gratitude, we thank K for a legacy of service that will inspire our community for many more years to come.” As the center prepares for Alferio's departure, it has begun planning ways to celebrate her commitment while also creating a seamless transition. "The center remains committed to its mission of enriching the community in new and exciting ways," the release stated. ...read more read less