Variations on a Theme: Achieving Diversity from the Inside Out

Tuesday, October 14, 10:00 am – 11:30 am
International Ballroom C, M2/International Ballroom Level

Organized by Barbara Saunders, program officer, The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. Presented by Barbara Saunders; Paul Hogle, vice president for institutional advancement and learning, The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra; Penelope McPhee, president, The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation; and Penny Smith, arts & culture management fellowship manager, Chicago Community Trust.

While strategies to increase participation by diverse audiences at arts and culture organizations often center on programming and marketing, some organizations are including an additional approach: diversifying their fields “from the inside out.” In this session, we’ll explore the efforts of organizations that have made the commitment to bring artists and administrators of underrepresented communities to their respective fields. What is working? What is required of the institutions, the program participants, and the funders who support the programs? What are key lessons learned, and how have these programs evolved over time? Session attendees will learn about initiatives that are reaching new milestones along the road to diversity, and practical ideas that can be adapted for programs in their communities.

A three-minute video introducing the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra’s Talent Development Program, followed by a facilitated conversation with the presenters and the audience.