The board of the Springfield Area Arts Council (SAAC) has accepted the resignation of Executive Director Jon Austin. Sheila Walk, current program administrator, will assume interim executive director duties beginning November 15, 2017, to advance the Arts Council’s mission of enriching the region through the arts.
Board president, Courtney Wick comments, “We appreciate Jon’s contribution and Sheila’s assuming interim responsibility. This transition is a great time for the board to revisit the strategic plan to ensure the best support for the arts moving forward.”
Austin joined the Arts Council in 2015 following an interim term by former board president Mark Pence necessitated by the retirement of longtime executive director Penny Wollan-Kriel. Austin will be working with the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) to assist museum restoration after disasters like the recent hurricanes and wildfires.
“In this interim period, we are focusing our efforts on our biggest fundraiser: First Night Springfield, the annual family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration. Currently, we are seeking local sponsors and individual donors for stages and activities. We have a fantastic lineup of performers.” stated Walk.
The Arts Council facilitates funding opportunities for regional artists and arts groups to create and for citizens to enjoy the benefits of the arts. The arts create leisure, education, and social opportunities for individuals and families as well as provide creative outlets for artistic skills. Participation in the arts also is linked to higher scholastic achievement in children, greater happiness in adults, and improved physical and emotional health for all arts participants.
The Arts Council assists non-profit arts in generating direct and indirect funding for communities in Sangamon and Menard Counties including revenue to artists and organizations as well as “collateral spending” on dining, shopping, hotel, and parking related to arts attendance. Additionally, a vibrant, culturally active community encourages new industry, a young workforce, and cultural tourists vital to the social and economic fabric of the region.
If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Courtney Wick, Board President, at 217-521-0029 or email at courtneyraedio@gmail.com.
