The Leadership Class’s Arts and Culture Day brought to the forefront many timely issues affecting the arts in our community. The first destination was the new Fort Worth Museum of Science and History where the class was greeted by Kit Goolsby, Vice President of Education.   Board Trustees Ralph Mendoza, Judie Greenman, and Margy Romans led a tour that focused specifically on the art and architecture of the museum.   Jody Ulich, President of the Arts Council of Fort Worth, shared her knowledge and expertise on the vital role the arts play in our thriving economy. She then graciously hosted the group for lunch at the Fort Worth Community Arts Center.

The group headed downtown for a short performance at Jubilee Theatre, followed by a panel addressing diversity in the arts. Panel participants were Adam Adolfo, Executive Director of Artes de la Rosa; Benjamin Espino, Managing Director of Jubilee Theatre, and Blake Moorman, LFW Class of 1997 and supporter of Jubilee Theater. The group then moved to the Green Room at Bass Hall to hear from the leading performing arts groups in Fort Worth, including Dionne Kennedy, Performing Arts Fort Worth, Inc.; Ann Koonsman, Fort Worth Symphony; Gene Almy, Texas Ballet Theater; Allan Sampson, Van Cliburn Foundation; and Darren Woods, Fort Worth Opera.

The group spent the balance of the day participating in the Appreciative Inquiry process, facilitated by Cyndi Johnson with North Texas Courage & Renewal.  Through the process, the class reflected on their positive experiences related to the arts, came up with dream statements for the future of the arts in Fort Worth and gave input that will help the arts groups gain larger audiences, attendance, and support.

The day ended with a tour of Bass Hall.  Thanks to the planning team for a thought-provoking, comprehensive look at the arts:  Kathy Blackmon, Marcia Garoon, Harva Kuykendall, Tom Mitchell, Janelle Montgomery, Kendal Smith Lake, and Joy Thomas.