SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- On Friday Mayor James Mueller announced that the Executive Director of Venues Parks and Arts, Jordan Gathers, will be leaving the City on May 1 to pursue a new opportunity.

During Gathers time as Acting Director and Executive Director of Venues, Parks and Arts, he strengthened community connections by fostering engaging experiences and advancing safe, welcoming, and vibrant public spaces.

His leadership helped bring back South Bend’s Ethnic Festival as Fusion Fest, launch the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dream Center, complete the Raclin Murphy Encore Center, expand the Coal Line and LINK Trail, and secure improvements to Kennedy Park, LaSalle Park, and the Byers Softball Complex.

“Jordan has led Venues, Parks & Arts with passion and creativity, guiding transformational projects that elevate our shared spaces and bringing our community together with new experiences,” said Mayor James Mueller. “I am thankful for his years of service and his lasting impact across South Bend. As he moves onto his next chapter, he leaves behind a VPA team that will continue advancing its mission with the same care and excellence.”

Prior to his time leading the Venues Parks and Arts department, Jordan served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Mayor Mueller. He has been a part of the Mueller administration for six years.

“Serving Mayor Mueller and the people of South Bend has been an honor,” said Executive Director of Venues. Parks & Arts, Jordan Gathers. “I’m proud of the momentum our dedicated VPA team has built in creating spaces that bring our community to life, and I know that work will continue.”