Nancy Harbour began at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts in 1988, six months before the doors opened. After becoming president in 1997, Harbour oversaw numerous capital projects, implemented the new ticketing cost center, stabilized resident company relationships and successfully renegotiated union and management contracts. During her three-month sabbatical, Harbour intended to spend more time with family, travel and indulge in her hobbies of gardening and quilting.