Claire Bissell has been named the Executive Director the American Rose Society (ARS).
Bissell joined the staff of the ARS in 2021 as Accounting Director. During the last quarter of 2023 she served as
the Interim Executive Director. In early January the ARS Board of Directors offered her the permanent position.
Diane Sommers, ARS President, added, “Claire has done an exceptional job as Accounting Director for the
ARS the past two years and as ARS Interim Acting Executive Director for the past four months. The ARS Board
of Directors is confident with Claire’s ability to lead our organization in support of ongoing initiatives at our
headquarters in Shreveport, Louisiana and our members across the U.S., all with emphasis on rose education,
preservation and enjoyment.”
Bissell came to the ARS with more than 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, mainly focused on
accounting, grant-writing and fundraising. Claire is also experienced in working with non-profit Boards of
Directors, recruiting and managing volunteers and developing and implementing new programs. Personally, Bissell is an active member of her church, serving for many years as a volunteer Sunday School teacher, Youth minister and VBS leader. She and her husband Timmy have been happily married for more than 31 years and are the proud parents of two grown children and one spoiled fur baby.
More Staff Additions:
KAY CHEESMAN joins the staff as Garden Director. With more than 30 years of horticulture industry experience, Cheesman will provide leadership and direction in the care of the roses. Her education includes a Master of
Science from Stephen F Austin State Univeristy with emphasis in agriculture and forestry. Her numerous professional experiences include her own business ownership, staff training and leadership, financial management of
retail areas and building strong relationships with her customers. Cheesman feels that joining the American Rose
Center is a natural step in her inner desire to nurture. You can reach Kay at [email protected].
FELICIA KAY has joined the staff as our Event and Volunteer Director. She will be the primary point of contact
for all clients and visitors concerning the use of the American Rose Center grounds for weddings, receptions,
parties, meetings or special events. Kay comes equipped with more than 20 years experience in stage, event and
production management as well as entertainment and film production. You are encouraged to reach out to Felicia
for all your American Rose Center event planning needs, [email protected] or 318-532-5423.