Larry Lahaie has been appointed Director of the Century II Performing Arts and Convention Center for the City of Wichita. Lahaie, who has more than 24 years of experience managing convention centers and arenas, began his new position today. Prior to coming to Wichita, he was Director of Operations for the Metropolitan Entertainment and Convention Authority in Omaha, Neb.
In the last decade, Lahaie has also held the following positions: Public Events Manager, Rosenblatt Stadium/Civic Auditorium/Orpheum Theater, Omaha; Executive Director, Metropolitan Omaha Convention Sports and Entertainment Authority, Omaha; Executive Director, On the Mark, Inc., Las Vegas, Nev.; and Director of Operations, America West Arena, Phoenix, Ariz.
Mr. Lahaie is a graduate from Grand Canyon College in Phoenix. He has a Bachelor of Arts in American history and secondary education and a minor in sociology and government.
“I’m walking into a great situation with a very strong staff and a facility with a strong history,” said Lahaie. “I’m looking forward to the future, not just with Century II but also with tourism and convention and involvement with all the hotels and the downtown area.”
More specifically, Lahaie says he hopes to maximize the efficiency of facility operations and utilize his Midwest experience to ensure that Century II continues to be a major community partner. Mr. Lahaie is married and has three children.