The best question of the evening, from my perspective, was the last one — what single piece of advice do you have for nonprofit arts leaders in this time of austerity?  One answer was to be bold, rather than sitting in the office and worrying.  Another answer expressed concern that the “recalibration” of arts organizations have weakened their abilities to provide quality programming.  The third answer, which interestingly came from Les Wexner, CEO of Limited Brands Inc.,  was the best.  Wexner is emphasizing a focus on his customers.  He wants the corporate folks in his stores talking to customers and understanding them better during this time of economic distress.  This translates well to any size nonprofit.  We need to go back to our base and talk with our long-time donors and connect better with our membership.  They are our lifeblood.

The panel included NEA  Chair Rocco Landesman, Les Wexner, Mayor Michael Coleman and Doug Kridler of the Columbus Foundation.  The moderator was Julie Henahan of the Ohio Arts Council.   Again, catch the whole hour broadcast this Sunday at 1 pm on WOSU TV.  We were proud to be a part of this event.

We are also proud that WOSU’s Columbus Neighborhoods documentary and web project was cited as one of the key initiatives already in progress to bring the city’s history and accomplishments to the community.

If you are interested in being more involved, go to the new Columbus 2012 website and volunteer or get on the mailing list. There is much to do and the committee is seeking your ideas!