After more than a decade serving as President and CEO of South Arts, I’m writing to share that I am retiring on September 19, 2025. This moment is bittersweet, but it also offers a chance to look back with gratitude on all we have accomplished together.
Since its early days, South Arts has been rooted in our mission to enhance Southern vitality through the arts. Our work originally focused on two areas - supporting folk and traditional arts as well as touring and presenting. Over time, we have crafted our programming to broaden this mission, encompassing visual and literary arts, independent film, and cross-sector partnerships, always with the goal of strengthening the arts ecosystem of the South.
Together, we have created and championed programs that uplift the vitality and innovation of our region. From Jazz Road to Southern Cultural Treasures and ArtsHERE, from Arts Readiness and Relief to the Southern Prize, each program has helped artists and arts organizations share their gifts and enrichthe cultural life of the South. It has been a privilege to be part of efforts that have brought more artists, more voices, and more creativity into more communities.
Southern art has always played a vital role in our society, yet our region has historically received less support, even in the best of times. Today we face obstacles few could have imagined just a few years ago. What I have always admired most about the South, however, is our resilience. Even in times of scarcity, southern art is rooted in tradition yet constantly evolving, enriched by new voices and communities. We meet every challenge with creativity, tenacity, and generosity of spirit — and that inspires me as I look to the future.
After a lifelong career in the arts, it has been my great privilege to lead South Arts since 2012. Working with our board and staff has been a joy. Together, we have expanded how we think about who we serve and how we support them, while always keeping our mission at the heart of the work.
As the Board continues its work to identify the next President and CEO, I’m pleased to share that our board chair Gretchen McLennon will step into the role of interim president, stewarding and sustaining this work alongside our dedicated team to advance the mission and legacy of South Arts.
I have so much to be grateful for, especially your support. Thank you again for your trust in me and in our mission and for helping to shape and sustain the future of South Arts.
With much gratitude and respect,
Suzette “Susie” Surkamer