Noblesville Main Street picks new executive director

A Noblesville organization that leads community programming and initiatives to promote the economic and cultural vitality of downtown has named a new executive director.

Lorna Steele, a 2013 Indiana University Bloomington graduate, joins Noblesville Main Street as its executive director after previously serving as assistant recreation director for the Noblesville Parks and Recreation Department.

There, Steele, whose degree is in recreation, park and tourism management, helped develop programming events, including an adult Halloween party and Salsa for Salsa—a Cinco de Mayo event that featured salsa dancing, salsa tasting and salsa bands.

She replaces Chris Owens, who held the position since 2014 and left in February for a new job.

“This role is so important for our thriving downtown and also our community,” Jackie Bell, vice president of the Noblesville Main Street board of directors, said in a written statement. “Lorna is positioned to lead as we kick off our exciting season of events. Her passion for this community and this role makes her a perfect match for the organization’s next growth chapter.”

Steele said she’s looking forward to working with the people who improve Noblesville’s historic downtown.

Noblesville Main Street, a member of the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs Main Street Program, has worked to preserve and enhance the authentic, historic aspects of Noblesville’s downtown for 29 years.

Its programs include the weekend farmers market and the annual Street Dance, which draws 18,000 people to downtown Noblesville each July.