Texas Folklife has announced that musician and cultural leader Sunny Sauceda has stepped into the role of Deputy Director, marking a new chapter for the organization heading into 2026.
Sauceda will work under Executive Director Dr. Elisha R. Oliver and alongside staff to support Texas Folklife’s statewide mission of preserving and celebrating the living traditions found across Texas. His focus will include program support, community relationships, and helping connect artists, culture bearers, educators, and partners.
Dr. Oliver says Sauceda has already been a key part of the work happening behind the scenes:
“Sunny has long been part of the heartbeat of this organization. This role recognizes what he already brings—deep cultural knowledge, generosity of spirit, and a genuine commitment to artists and communities.”
Sauceda, an award-winning musician with a long history in mentorship and traditional arts, says he’s looking forward to continuing the work:
“This organization has always been about people, stories, and community. I look forward to continuing to support the artists and culture bearers who make this work meaningful.”
In his new role, Sauceda will contribute to program development, partner engagement, and organizational planning, with a particular emphasis on youth learning, intergenerational exchange, and public access to folk and traditional arts.
Texas Folklife says this comes at a time of momentum and growth, as the organization expands its education programs, strengthens documentation efforts, and creates new opportunities for Texans to engage with cultural traditions statewide.
Texas Folklife is a statewide nonprofit dedicated to preserving and presenting the diverse folk and traditional arts of Texas through education, apprenticeships, live events, media projects, and community partnerships.
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