As the Oklahoma Legislature adjourns and we reflect on the 2026 legislative session, I am filled with gratitude for the artists, educators, nonprofit leaders, community developers, volunteers, board members, advocates, and supporters who continue to demonstrate the strength and value of Oklahoma's arts and creative sector. I am equally grateful for the dedicated staff of the Oklahoma Arts Council, whose commitment and expertise make this work possible every day.
From February through May, the Oklahoma Arts Council had the privilege of engaging with legislators, statewide partners, and communities across Oklahoma to share a simple but powerful message: the arts matter. They enrich our schools, strengthen our economy, improve health and well-being, revitalize communities, preserve cultural heritage, and help tell the story of who we are as Oklahomans.
While this legislative session unfolded in a challenging budget environment, we were encouraged by meaningful conversations with policymakers who recognize the arts as an essential component of vibrant, healthy, and economically competitive communities. Their engagement reflects a growing understanding of the important role the arts play in creating opportunities and improving quality of life across our state.
Throughout the spring, I had the opportunity to attend events across Oklahoma that highlighted the breadth, resilience, and impact of our sector. From arts education celebrations and nonprofit awards, each experience reinforced how creativity serves as a catalyst for connection, innovation, and community growth.
The Oklahoma Arts Council also celebrated several significant milestones this spring, including the largest gift of artwork ever donated to the State Art Collection, the unveiling of the first monumental works along the Route 66 Public Art Trail in Wellston, and the state's first Arts and Health Summit on the campus of OU Health, among others. We are also nearing completion of the distribution of $10 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, an historic investment that while we can all agree has been administratively complex, has strengthened organizations and communities across Oklahomawhile advancing important work in arts education, arts and health, and community development.
What inspires me most is the continued collaboration among artsorganizations, schools, local leaders, philanthropists, and community partners. The challenges facing our sector are real, but time and again we see the arts bringing people together, strengthening belonging, fostering dialogue, and creating pathways for economic and community growth.
As we look ahead, there is much to be excited about. Oklahoma's arts and creative sector continues to expand its impact through initiatives in artseducation, creative aging, arts and health, public art, workforce development, community development, and cultural tourism, particularly during the landmark centennial celebration of Route 66. New partnerships and investments are creating opportunities to serve more Oklahomans while ensuring that creativity remains accessible in communities of every size.
This spring also marked a personal milestone for me. On May 20, I celebrated my 13th anniversary as Executive Director of the Oklahoma Arts Council. Reflecting on those years, I am continually inspired by the people who make up Oklahoma's arts community. I have witnessed communities transformed through public art, students discover their potential through arts education, older adults find connection through creative engagement, and organizations leverage the arts to strengthen local economies and enhance quality of life.
While much has changed over the past 13 years, one thing has remained constant: the passion, generosity, and commitment of those who believe in the power of the arts to enrich lives and strengthen communities.
As I reflect on both this legislative session and my years of service to the agency, I am more optimistic than ever about the future of the arts in Oklahoma. Thank you for the work you do every day to strengthen our state through creativity, innovation, and community engagement. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, and more creative Oklahoma.
