Ann Andera is the Director of the Institute of Texan Culture’s signature events, including the Texas Folklife Festival, which she has director for over 30 years, and the Asian Festival. An exemplary events planner, Andera has earned “Professional of the Year” and “Lifetime Achievement” honors from the Texas Festivals Association. She is a past Board Chair of the International Festivals Association and a member of the organization’s Presidents Council. Jo Ann has worked for UTSA’s Institute of Texan Cultures since 1970. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and is a Certified Festival Executive from the International Festivals Association and the Institutional Management Institute at Purdue University.