For Immediate Release: October 19, 2026

Contact: Heidi Hagemeier, Arts & Culture Communications Coordinator, Heidi.Hagemeier@biz.oregon.gov, 971-518-0966

Governor appoints Michael Hammerstrom to Oregon Arts Commission

Portland theater artist and nonprofit leader brings a focus on young audiences and representation to the arts

SALEM, Oregon — The Oregon Arts Commission is pleased to announce that Governor Tina Kotek has appointed Michael Hammerstrom of Portland to the Commission. Hammerstrom is a multidisciplinary theater artist and nonprofit professional whose career spans performance, arts nonprofits and public media.

Oregon Arts Commissioners play an important role in the state’s cultural vitality. These volunteer leaders oversee a state agency that provides dynamic arts programs, critical financial and technical support for cultural organizations and artists, and meaningful leadership around arts and culture needs. They work to ensure that culture remains a vibrant part of Oregon’s economy, education system and community identity. Hammerstrom’s term is through August 31, 2030.

Michael Hammerstrom (Portland)

Raised in Aloha, Hammerstrom earned a BFA in Musical Theatre from The Boston Conservatory at Berklee. While touring the country performing children’s theater, he discovered a passion for ensuring that kids can see themselves represented in the arts from an early age.

He built his nonprofit career in Washington, D.C., at KABOOM! and PBS before returning home in 2019 to serve as Director of Marketing & Development at Oregon Children’s Theatre. He currently works as a Market Research Analyst for Oregon Public Broadcasting, where he also serves on the organization’s Equity Team.

“Arts and culture is my passion and my profession, which I largely credit to the robust public arts programs I had access to growing up in the Beaverton School District,” Hammerstrom said. “The community support and training I received was lifesaving for a young boy who didn't feel accepted anywhere else. I’m honored be able to offer that experience to serve all Oregonians through the Arts Commission.”

“We’re so pleased to welcome Michael to the Oregon Arts Commission,” said Oregon Arts & Culture Director Amy Lewin. “Commissioners play a unique role, helping shape how Oregon invests in and supports arts, culture and creativity across the state. Michael’s commitment to representation, young audiences and community engagement will be a tremendous asset as the Commission works to strengthen opportunities for artists and cultural organizations in every corner of Oregon.”

An active member of Portland’s theater community, Hammerstrom has also performed extensively in New York City and regionally, and has sung with the Portland Gay Men’s Chorus and the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, D.C. His board service includes Theatre for Young Audiences/USA, Bridging Voices and Many Hats Collaboration. He is a contributor to Anti-Racist and Anti-Oppressive Futures for Theatre for Young Audiences: An Interactive Guide. He lives in Northwest Portland with his dog, Dexter.

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About the Oregon Arts Commission

The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. Nested within Business Oregon, the Arts Commission works to support the economies, educational opportunities and vibrancy of communities throughout the state.

The Arts Commission is supported with funds appropriated by the Oregon Legislature, as well as by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Oregon Cultural Trust. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.