West Virginia University graduate students in the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences' Department of Public Administration and WVU Extension Service are partnering with Arts Mon, which serves as the Morgantown area arts council, to encourage the development of an arts collaborative in Monongalia and Preston counties.
The group is working with local musicians, artisans, and the greater Morgantown community to cultivate the development of a thriving arts collaborative which will enrich the lives of those living and working in the area, while also enhancing tourism opportunities.
“A vibrant arts community is important for recruitment and retention for our business community. It also adds to our basic quality of life and educational opportunities for our children,” said Jack Thompson, president, Arts Mon Board of Directors.
Masters students in the public administration program will present their research and findings to the arts collaborative group as part of their capstone course using the WVU Reed College of Media Innovation Center. The presentation will include a review of resources needed to grow the collaborative, provide a vision for the arts community and discuss the economic impact such a collaborative would have on local communities.
“The arts provide so many benefits to communities, including providing an avenue for collective efficacy and civic engagement, as well as bringing the community together through art, music, dance and other cultural experiences,” said Kelly Nix, PhD, former WVU Extension Service specialist in leadership, community resources and economic development. “Through this partnership we hope to lay the groundwork for events and activities to expand the current Arts Collaborative.”
To learn more about WVU Extension Service programs and classes, visit extension.wvu.edu or call your local office for the most complete information in your area. Follow the WVU Extension Service on Facebook and Twitter at @WVUExtension.
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Contact: Tara Curtis, WVU Extension, 304-293-7996, tara.curtis@mail.wvu.edu