SC Arts Commission Press Releases
S.C. Arts Commission Executive Director Announces Retirement
April 2, 2009
Media Contact:
Milly Hough
(803) 734-8698
COLUMBIA, S.C. – After 15 years at the helm, South Carolina Arts Commission Executive Director Susie Surkamer will retire, effective May 2. Surkamer began her career with the agency as a dancer-in-residence in 1974, before moving into arts administration. She was named executive director in 1994.
“I am extremely fortunate to have worked with thousands of talented artists and dedicated arts professionals to advance the arts for the past 35 years,” said Surkamer. “The Arts Commission’s role in supporting the arts statewide means that much of our work has been accomplished through partnerships. These collaborations will be even more vital as the agency continues initiatives in artist development, arts education and public participation and embarks on the next long range planning process. While I will miss the daily interaction with my colleagues in the arts, in education and in business, I leave knowing that the Arts Commission is well-positioned to continue the progress nurtured by many hands over the past 40-plus years.”
Surkamer has served on numerous state, regional and national boards and alliances. She is a former chair of the Southern Arts Federation and currently serves as vice chair of the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies. She is a member of the Winthrop University Board of Visitors, the President’s Advisory Board at Clemson University, the South Carolina Rural Development Council, and other organizations. In 2008, she was recognized by the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies with the Gary Young Award, given for exemplary leadership, innovative thinking, enduring commitment to public support for the arts and dedication to diverse artistic expression.
“Susie’s name is synonymous with the arts, not only in South Carolina, but across the country,” said Linda Stern, Arts Commission board chairman. “Her leadership in the areas of arts education, arts advocacy, public participation and community design has benefited South Carolina students, families, artists and communities and earned the Arts Commission a national reputation. For that reason, we have established a broad national search in an effort to identify and recruit the best possible person to serve as our next director.”
About SCAC:
The South Carolina Arts Commission is the state agency charged with creating a thriving arts environment that benefits all South Carolinians, regardless of their location or circumstances. Created by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1967, the Arts Commission works to increase public participation in the arts by providing services, grants and leadership initiatives in three areas: arts education, community arts development and artist development. Headquartered in Columbia, S.C., the Arts Commission is funded by the state of South Carolina, by the federal government through the National Endowment for the Arts and other sources. For more information, visit www.SouthCarolinaArts.com or call (803) 734-8696.
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