August 18, 2016
Dear friends, supporters, and artists,
After 11 years of working together as leaders of the Coleman Center for the Arts (CCA) we are writing to announce that we will step down as Co-Directors this fall, and the CCA will begin a new chapter in its three-decade history.
The CCA has become a model for deep and long-term engagement between artists and community, and what can be accomplished through sustained creative and collaborative action. We could not be more proud of the work we have produced here through our long and heartfelt collaboration with the Board of Directors, our amazing staff, the Sumter County community, and the many, many artists who brought their vision, hearts, and labor to our endeavors in York.
Over the last decade we have increased funding, expanded programs, improved facilities, and stewarded the organization into greater maturity and health, while developing a rich body of creative projects. We are proud to say that the CCA has never been in a stronger position to continue its work. We look forward to seeing the results of a new Director along with the continued dedication of the board and staff.
Being a member of the York community has taught us what community is really about.
It was you—our participant-audience— and your love for York that fueled our creative endeavors and kept us coming back for more. Your love for this place has been our muse, and we hope that we reflected it back to you with the same beauty you revealed to us. You have our sincere appreciation for all that you have helped accomplish here, for your love and friendship, the personal risks you took to cross lines of difference and participate in creative action, and the many contributions you made to our work and organization. You have always been what makes the CCA possible.
We are excited to look to new adventures in our future. Nathan will begin a new role in affordable housing with the Michaels Development Company in Atlanta this September. Shana will continue working for the CCA through the remainder of 2016, as she works with the Board of Directors to hire a new Executive Director. She will look to new creative pursuits in 2017 and beyond.
A part of us will be here forever, for this has become home to us. Please don’t hesitate to call on us in the future.
With all of our love,
Shana & Nathan
