GRAND ISLAND, NE — The Nebraska State Fair is promoting from within for its new executive director.

The Fair Board approved Jaime Parr for the top job at its meeting on Friday. Parr was serving as interim executive director after Bill Ogg resigned.

“I think I offer them a lot as far as far as resources for how we did things and maybe why we did things a certain way, but I’m also very open to change and for considering how things might be done differently,” Parr said.

The promotion is just the next step up for Parr, who started as a seasonal employee in 1998. Except for a four-year break, she’s worked at the fair ever since. The Fremont native says it’s surreal to lead the organization she once served as a receptionist.

“A lot of years doing a multitude of different jobs and I truly am still learning. 25 years later, I learn something every day at the Nebraska State Fair and that keeps me going and excited to see what is around the corner,” Parr said.

The fair board considered 22 applicants and interviewed two candidates. Parr’s interview was on Monday. In a news release, Board President Bob Haag said Parr’s longevity with the fair, knowledge of the institution and love of Nebraska set her apart.

“The faith of the board and the faith of the staff is what allows me to feel confident in this position and to believe that I will take the organization the right direction,” Parr said.

Parr has some changes to the fair layout in mind already. 

Her big picture goal is to make the fair happy, engaging and inclusive.

“When they’re coming in I want things to be colorful and bright," Parr said. "I want the sights, the sounds - I want all of the senses to be touched. I really want people to have a full experience when they attend the Nebraska State Fair.”

Parr replaces Bill Ogg, who resigned in October after managing three fairs. The board has credited him for building up financial reserves and navigating through the pandemic.

The 2023 Nebraska State Fair will run from August 25th to September 4th.