National Endowment for the Arts Chair Jane Chu announced that she is resigning from her role as head of the arts agency on June 6 after a four-year term.

“I am so appreciative of having had this opportunity,” Chu said in a statement. “The National Endowment for the Arts is doing effective and meaningful work to help the arts thrive and connect to individuals and in communities large and small, densely populated, rural, and remote in all 50 states, U.S. territories, and in every Congressional District.”

Selected to lead the federal arts agency by President Barack Obama in 2014, Chu guided the NEA through one of the most challenging periods in its 50-year history when the Trump administration released its 2018 budget plan, calling for the elimination of the vital arts agency.

Thanks to bipartisan support, the NEA’s future was secured in March when the Senate approved a budget that not only preserved the agency, but increased its funding.

Read: FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR NEA’S MUSICAL THEATER SONGWRITING CHALLENGE

“In my travels to 200 communities in all 50 states—making more than 400 site visits—I have talked with visual artists, musicians, dancers, actors, and writers who are powerfully creating America’s culture,” Chu continued. “Children from all walks of life are expanding their skills artistically and academically through the arts. And arts organizations are not only providing programs for audiences, they are also seen as leaders in their communities because the arts can bring people together. I am personally inspired and impressed by them. It has been an honor and privilege to serve as the chair. Thank you for believing so strongly in the mission of the National Endowment for the Arts.”

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