The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation, presenting Van Wert Live events, honored the commitments of outgoing board members, Scott Mull and Dr. Kevin Laing, along with resigning member, Vicki Brunn at the June Board of Directors meeting.
Dr. Kevin Laing, who has been supporting the arts since the inception of the Niswonger Performing Arts Center in 2007 states, “Serving on the VWAPAF Board has been a wonderful experience. There are many dedicated patrons, volunteers, and supporters that have given so much to make the Van Wert Live events as successful as they are. Being given the opportunity to work for, and with, these fantastic folks has been a great pleasure. I wish the board great success as they wend their way through reopening live performance experiences in the new pandemic environment. I hope that our audience members will soon be able to come and safely enjoy a show!”
Van Wert City School Board Vice President and outgoing board member, Scott Mull shares, “I have enjoyed working with and learning from fellow board members to support the vision and mission of Van Wert Performing Arts Foundation and Van Wert Live. I am most proud of the collaboration between Van Wert City Schools and the VWAPAF that has flourished over my 5 years of board service. This collaboration has advanced the mission and vision of both entities and has strengthened performing arts entertainment and education for years to come to the benefit of VWCS students, VW city, county and regional patrons of the arts.”
The outgoing Board of Directors have been part of the evolution of the Van Wert Live branding that is focused on expanding venue offerings to diversify the entertainment experiences available to the region. These venues include the Niswonger Perfoming Arts Center, Fountain Park, and the Grandstand at the Van Wert County Fairground.
“The contributions from these valuable individuals have provided insightful support that is a guide to operations and staff as we pursue the vision to make Van Wert an entertainment destination,” commented Gary Taylor, VWAPAF Board Chairman.
The newly-elected VWAPAF Director Class of 2020 includes Rachel Dickman and Mary Ann Falk, appointed by Van Wert City Schools and Jeremy Laukhuf and DJ Muse appointed by the Van Wert County Foundation. Mark Bagley, Van Wert City School Superintendent, replaces Vicki Brunn who resigned from the Board upon retirement as Superintendent.
“Our Board of Directors are made up of a professionally diverse group of individuals who are deeply connected to community growth and development and also share a common interest in the value of the arts. At this time of unique opportunities and adaptation, the role these valued directors play in advising is vital to our operational success. Each one is valued for their unique experiences that lend insight toward the realization of the vision to make Van Wert a safe entertainment destination,” adds Tafi Stober, Executive Director of Van Wert Live events.
Board of Director Roster 2020-2021: Gary Taylor, Chairman; Dave Roach, Vice Chairman; Eva Yarger, Secretary; DJ Muse, Treasurer; Mark Bagley; Bill Montgomery; Cindy Hurless; Tina Decker; Jeremy Laukhuf; Mary Ann Falk; Rachel Dickman
The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation is a nonprofit arts organization serving the Van Wert community and beyond and powered by the Van Wert County Foundation. More information is available at npacvw.org.
