Fall 2023 Fine Arts News

Empowering the Arts The college’s Board of Visitors continues to create a lasting impact on the TCU campus and beyond

PHOTO: GLEN E. ELLMAN

New members must have a keen interest in community involvement and a passion for the fine arts. “A key goal of the BOV is to be more representative and inclusive of the fine arts community in Fort Worth,” Mullins said. “It is essential to shine a light on our exceptional fine arts programs and provide scholarships to talented students,” said board member Stuart Schultz III ’00. “We want students to ultimately graduate and represent the university while earning a world-class education in the process.” Throughout the academic year, the leadership of each academic unit is invited to BOV meetings to share their vision and goals for their respective programs. The board looks to understand how best to support each unit’s goals and identify opportunities, as they prepare students with valuable skills they will need in their future careers. A key initiative is the Fine Arts Gala, a biennial fundraiser to provide opportunities for students to attend master classes, national competitions and the Theatre Senior Showcase in New York City, among others. The inaugural gala chaired by Sullivan and Stevens grossed $104,000 in 2002, and the board and volunteer committee raised more than $450,000 at this year’s gala. The total raised to date in support of the college is $2.61 million. “The Fine Arts Gala is the perfect venue for introducing our outstanding students to those who may not be familiar with our fine arts programs,” said board member Brenda Cline ’82. “The gala is like a pebble thrown into a still pond—it has a ripple effect of generating even greater circles of advocacy, awareness and financial support for the college.” The board is deeply committed to supporting the fine arts on campus and in the broader community alongside Amy Hardison Tully, Teresa Ann Carter King Dean of the College of Fine Arts.

The audience applauds for the TCU Symphony Orchestra during the Fine Arts Gala.

“Time, talent or treasure.” Often said by Scott Sullivan, former dean of the College of Fine Arts, the phrase has become integral to the college’s Board of Visitors (BOV) and its endeavors to ensure the college leaves a lasting impact on the TCU campus and beyond. The board features approximately 35 engaged community members who provide expertise and support to advance the college’s academic reputation and award winning programs. “The goal is to strengthen the college as it evolves while greatly valuing the incredible contributions of time, talent and treasure of our members,” said Michael Mullins, who is entering his third year as the BOV chair. “We have built such a strong bond along the way, with a warm, communal spirit and great sense of fun.” The board also boasts four emerita members, Barbara Cox, Jean Roach, Jane Schlansker and Kathleen Stevens.

“All have been such pillars and greatly contributed to our mission,” said Mullins. A number of board members have served for many years and support the fine arts by providing insightful guidance and spearheading fundraising initiatives. “Membership is a three-year term with options for renewal,” explains Mullins. “This has been a blessing because the dedication has been so great to the college and TCU.” “I have a long history with TCU, starting my freshman year in the marching band,” said Kathleen Stevens ’61, who served as chair from 2001 to 2006. “We are dedicated to sharing our students’ talents and the importance of the College of Fine Arts to our community.” Being selected as a board member requires a vigorous nomination process. The executive committee votes after receiving a list of nominees from current members who believe the candidates will be interested, enthusiastic and willing to serve.

10 FINE ARTS NEWS FALL 2023