Andrea Luque Káram has been appointed executive director of Ragtag Film Society, the nonprofit that puts on the renowned True/False documentary festival in Columbia, MO and operates the city’s Ragtag Cinema.

Luque Káram is by no means a stranger to the area, having most recently served as managing director of the Mizzou New Music Initiative at the University of Missouri, located in Columbia. She earned a Ph.D. in Arts Administration, Education, and Policy from The Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. She begins her position as executive director of Ragtag Film Society on April 25.

“Andrea brings a wealth of experience and a passion for community engagement to this leadership role,” Ragtag Film Society said in a release. “She has worked extensively in nonprofit arts organizations, where her innovative approach and dedication to enhancing the public’s access to the arts have proven to be invaluable assets… Her academic background and experience in arts administration equip her with the unique perspective to foster the intersection of arts, education, and community-building… [S]he is poised to guide the organization into its next chapter of growth.”

Ragtag Film Society Board President Carrie Barnett said, “We are thrilled to welcome Andrea as our new executive director. Her expertise, passion, and dedication to the arts and community make her the perfect fit to lead Ragtag Film Society. We look forward to working with her as we continue to elevate Ragtag as a vibrant and inclusive place for film lovers in Columbia and beyond.”

In her role as ED, Luque Káram will lead the Ragtag Film Society’s administrative operations, development initiatives, and strategic planning “while also enhancing its mission to provide exceptional cinematic experiences that inspire, challenge, and engage audiences. Her leadership will focus on building stronger community connections, advancing the visibility of Ragtag’s offerings, and securing funding as the organization stays committed to its values of integrity, playfulness, inclusivity, and sustainability.”

Andrea Luque Káram succeeds the interim leadership of Chloé Trayner, artistic director; Grace Piontek, operations director, and Emily Edwards, communications director, who have served in the interim capacity since June 2024. “This directorial team is excited to welcome Andrea to Ragtag Film Society,” the release noted, “and will continue at the organization in their original roles.”

In a statement, Luque Káram said, “I have a deep admiration for the community hub that Ragtag and True/False represent in Columbia and beyond. It is truly an honor to be joining such a remarkable organization. I look forward to contributing to the continued growth and success of the Ragtag Film Society, as well as ensuring its lasting status as a beacon of independent cinema for mid-Missouri, and the world.”