Dear family and friends who have come alongside my work at Renew the Arts,
On January 2nd, I joyfully stepped into the role of Chairman of the Board of Renew the Arts, and Katy Martin has stepped into my previous role of leadership as President and CEO of Renew the Arts.
Looking back on my many years in that role, I am most proud of the work we’ve done with Porchlight, and the sponsorships we’ve managed to provide artists over time. I think so fondly of the projects, artists, podcast episodes, and beautiful cultural artifacts I’ve had the privilege to be a part of over the last nine years (if you include my tenure at the Nehemiah Foundation for Cultural Renewal).
As of late, I realized my leadership role as a co-founder and strategist had finished its course. I needed to make space for a more effective administrator and organized executive. The decision to step down was entirely mine, and the Board of Directors was gracious to accept my resignation, and immediately vote me onto the Board as Chairman.
Katy Martin had already been deeply involved in our day-to-day work, where she proved herself in diligence, competence, grace, humility, and persevering enthusiasm. She gladly accepted our offer and came on as President and CEO officially on the 2nd of this month.
I am especially excited to be able to hand this important work off to Katy. Prior to her time working directly with Renew the Arts, she was already exercising her organizational skills and gifts in servant-leadership to pursue art and hospitality. One instance of this was at Rebuilding Together, a national nonprofit focused on helping neighbors remain safely in the homes and communities they love. Katy led affiliates across the country in coordinated marketing campaigns and brand consistency, all the while witnessing the value of not only safety but also beauty as it pertains to homes and community.
I am still deeply committed to the vision, mission, and strategy of Renew the Arts and Porchlight, and I look forward to assisting Katy in her new and exciting role.
Finally, and this is closest to my heart: I want to thank you, the family and friends who have supported this mission during my tenure as President. We certainly could not have done it without you, and your ongoing financial support and friendship is and has been an inspiration in hard times, as well as a warm fortification in easier times. Thank you, from the very bottom of my heart.
The future of Renew the Arts looks bright, and though my role has changed, I am excited to continue this work with all of you.
Justus Stout
Chairman of the Board
Renew the Arts