A Message from Mary Hime, Past President of the Board

Dear Members:

A year ago, when we were welcoming in 2020 none of us dreamed how different a year it would be.  Many of our dreams and goals had to be put on hold.  Fortunately, some were still able to be achieved.

As Board President last year, I had three goals for the Art Center in 2020: to be transparent; to maintain the financial strength of the organization; and to start construction of our new facilities. 

First, we attempted and I believed succeeded to be transparent with not only the members but also with our donors and the community at large.  Second, I am pleased to report that the financial position of the RCA is strong as we start 2021 and that we did not need to access our reserves or take on any debt during 2020.  Finally, although construction has not yet started on our new facilities, I feel confident that you should see a shovel in the ground by the end of this month.

Last night was my last board meeting as President.  We ratified the election results for four new and one returning board member, and we elected officers for 2021.  Their names are listed in a separate article.  I will still be on the Executive Committee as Past-Present.  One of my areas of responsibility will be to chair a board committee that will finalize the Strategic Plan (2021-2023) that we developed at our board retreat in December.  You will hear more about this at the annual membership meeting on February 25th.

I want to thank 2020’s Board of Directors and the staff for their commitment to the Art Center this past year.  None of the goals could have been accomplished without them.  I also want thank two former Presidents whose terms on the board ended- Terry Baiamonte (2016) and Jean Giesey (2017).  They have left an indelible mark on the Arts in Texas.  Finally, I would like to say a special thanks to Luis who works tirelessly for this organization.  His focus and energy are unmatched.

It was my honor to serve as Board President in 2020.  Happy New Year! 

Mary Hime
Past President