New interim director of KAC wants community involvement

By Donna Marbury
Contributing Writer
Columbus Post

Sheryle Powell said since the announcement a few weeks ago that she would be the new interim director of the King Arts Complex, she has been busy transitioning her daily duties but her main goals are still constant.
I believe in the value of the King Arts Complex and the cultural fabric of central Ohio. Everyone here is deeply rooted in the African-American experience of the past, present and future. This complex is an anchor in the community. We want to make that experience valuable to everyone,” said Powell.

After searching the nation for a year and not being able to narrow down a candidate, the King Arts Complex board named Powell interim director. Powell’s duties will include working alongside the board of directors of the King Arts Complex, along with developing and managing the $1.1 million annual budget and managing paid staff. She will officially take over operations on December 1. Powell has been development director at the complex since 2005.

Powell attended Anderson University and The Ohio State University, majoring in communications and vocal music. She went on to leadership positions as a manager at Boise Cascade Office Products, The Wasserstrom Company and served as relationship manager of Major Gifts for the United Way of Central Ohio. Powell has been a speaker for various national United Way conferences as well as other philanthropic organizations, and is nationally known as an expert in minority resource development. She also serves on several non-profit organizational boards and is active in her church.

Larry James, president of the King Arts Complex board, said that Powell has shown the drive and competency to lead the arts center, which has been located in the Mt. Vernon area on the city’s near east side for 23 years. “Sheryle has demonstrated an understanding of the Complex’s business operations. But most importantly, she understands what is necessary in connecting with the community, collaborative partners, and stakeholders. Alongside a cast of dutiful staff, Sheryle has embraced the challenge of executing the new vision,” he said.

Dr. Barbara Nicholson, who had been director of the arts center since 1992, will now take on the role of executive director emeritus. Nicholson announced in August 2008 that she was looking to step down as the leader of the complex. The part-time position will allow Nicholson to continue fundraising and advising for the center. “I am delighted to pass the baton to Sheryle. I know she will bring energy, passion, knowledge, experience, vision and commitment to her new role and I am confident the King Arts Complex will continue to be a staple on the Columbus cultural horizon with her at the helm,” Nicholson said.

Powell said she looks forward to working alongside Nicholson on more long-term strategic plans for the King Arts Complex. “I am just going to build on the legacy and blueprint already drafted,” said Powell, which she said includes more educational programs for school-aged children and after-school programs. “I think people want to see the King Arts Complex offer what is missing in schools and other entertainment venues in the city.”

Since working at the King Arts Complex, Powell said she has witnessed many changes as the arts center has moved into a new century. Patrons can notice the upgraded landscape, theater and multipurpose room. “Cosmetically, there have been a lot of changes. Especially in the last two years because of a grant from the state,” said Powell.

The most meaningful changes have been more programming to engage the community, Powell said. The Legends and Legacies program that was introduced three years ago discusses celebrities and their impact on civil rights and social justice. A film and discussion series shows movies that talk about race, class, drugs and domestic violence. “It gives the community a chance to heal and dialogue,” she said.

Powell said she would also like to incorporate more events like the Slam, Jazz & Jam poetry competition, where area businesses held poetry readings and winners got the chance to read alongside host actor Malcolm Jamal-Warner. “Collaboration and partnership builds diversity and the sold-out audience was an attest to that,” said Powell, who noted that the complex worked alongside Zanzibar Brews and Urban Spirit Coffee Shop for the poetry readings, which are both located on Long Street. “Reaching out to a younger demographic with poetry and with Malcolm Jamal-Warner was the complex working to draw in the 18-35 year-old demographic and keep our finger on the pulse.”

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