Item 12 - Arts Commission Candidates for Board Nomination (1).pdf — original pdf

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ARTS COMMISSION: CANDIDATES FOR BOARD NOMINATION Kathryn (Kate) Meehan Kate Meehan offers a distinctive combination of arts leadership, strategic operations, and community-centered development experience. With a master’s degree in Theatre History and Criticism from Texas State University and a career that bridges the arts, design, and business strategy, Kate has built a reputation as an innovative and systems-minded leader. As Partner and Director of Operations at Rhode Partners Inc., she has led including overhauling human resources processes, refining client engagement systems, and driving organizational transformation efforts, marketing and business development initiatives. Her experience demonstrates a rare ability to merge creativity and efficiency, qualities that have tangible impact on both team culture and the broader Austin arts ecosystem. In her submission, Kate’s voice reflects deep curiosity, optimism, and a clear commitment to community building. She describes herself as a relentless community builder and process nerd, highlighting a belief that thoughtful systems and inclusive collaboration are the foundation of sustainable cultural and economic growth. Her work with arts-related organizations such as the Writers’ League of Texas and her leadership within architecture and design firms illustrate her understanding of the intersections between the arts, real estate, and community development. Kate’s enthusiasm to serve on the Rally Austin Board shines through her recognition that the arts play a vital role in shaping Austin’s evolving urban identity, bridging creative expression with civic and economic vitality. Sara Vanderbeek Sara Vanderbeek brings more than two decades of experience as an artist, curator, and arts advocate whose work has profoundly shaped Austin’s creative landscape. As the Founding Executive Director and Curator of DORF, she has cultivated a dynamic, community-driven platform for emerging and established artists, recognized by The Austin Chronicle as the Best New Experimental Gallery in 2018. Sara’s work extends beyond curation into civic engagement and public art leadership, and she has served as an independent curator for the Texas Municipal Retirement System, Zilker Point, and the University Health public art collections. Her experience spans major arts institutions including Christie’s Auction House, the McNay Art Museum, and The Contemporary Austin, underscoring her deep understanding of the art world’s institutional and market dimensions. Sara’s submission emphasizes her belief in the power of creative collaboration and her commitment to equitable cultural and economic development. She currently serves as a consultant for the City of Austin’s Urban Core Land Use Working Group, where she brings an artist’s perspective to conversations around development and zoning. Her extensive record of grants and fellowships, including from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Mid-America Arts Alliance, reflects both artistic excellence and strategic leadership in resource development. Sara’s enthusiasm for serving on the Rally Austin Board is grounded in her vision for strengthening Austin’s creative economy through thoughtful partnerships, innovative public engagement, and policies that ensure the arts remain integral to the city’s growth and character. 31