More Than “Extra-Curricular"

Thank you to the South Bend Civic Theatre for this recognition. There are plenty who are more deserving than I for something like this, including my parents who have always demonstrated to me a sense of community, service, and hard work.

It’s humbling…particularly because I feel like my work is still at its beginning stages… and also because it’s coming from the South Bend Civic, an organization I have significantly appreciated through the years - led by an individual, Aaron Nichols, who I admire and respect greatly.

The work that I’ve pretty much done my entire adult life is congruent to the work that is done by the South Bend Civic Theater. Public art and public placemaking, concerts and shows, recreation and events… To some, our efforts may seem “soft” or “extra-curricular."

Taking a backseat to the core subjects of police, fire, schools, business development, or even potholes... when push comes to shove, folks will often say these types of things are elective.

Our work is critical to the evolution and well-being of the city. Espeically when we find ourselves facing difficult situations, as we have been over the past few weeks, I think of our work around arts and culture and placemaking as some of the best tools to:

-Foster Social Unity

-Engage Civil Discourse 

-Inspire Individual Efficacy

-Improve Mental & Physical Health

-Create Economic Impacts

-Restore Neighborhoods

-Invest in our Youth

-And even Improve Public Safety

The effects are profound and meaningful. Rarely do you see someone who understands his organization’s responsibility in these areas as much as Aaron Nichols does.

While I’m grateful for the impacts we’re able to help usher through, I’m even more grateful for my committed colleagues who work tirelessly and the community’s support. Without people who volunteer, advocate, donate, create, and participate (all the “ates”) we wouldn’t be able to do this work. I consider it an honor to serve my hometown and I look forward to our many shared successes.