Press Release:
Governor Robert Bentley recently appointed three new members of the state arts council for six year terms beginning January 1, 2016. These new appointments are Kim Mitchell, Decatur; Dr. Henry Panion III, Birmingham; and Mary White, Florence. Two current members of the Council: Ceil Snow, Birmingham and Julie Friedman, Fairhope were reappointed to what will be fourth terms for both veteran members. In other action by the Governor, current member Dora James, Opelika was reappointed to fill the remaining two year term of Lee Sentell resigning after ten years of service on the Council.
Commenting on the recent reappointments and new appointments, Al Head, Executive Director of the Council said, “These reappointments solidify the continuity of strong leadership on the Council for the next six years. All of these individuals contribute significantly to the Council’s mission of promoting the arts and artists in Alabama.” In regards to the new appointments, Head commented, “We are especially excited to welcome three outstanding new members who will bring valuable perspective and background to the agency.” The new members are:
Kim Mitchell is the Executive Director of the historic Carnegie Library that serves as an art museum and education facility in Decatur. With degrees in communications and studies in political science, she has served in executive positions with both television and radio stations prior to her position with the museum. She serves on a number of boards including the Alabama Art Education Association.
Dr. Henry Panion’s expertise spans the musical spectrum, from Gospel to Classical, Pop to Rock, Hip-Hop to Be-Bop and everything in between. Dr. Panion is a nationally recognized composer, arranger, conductor, educator and Professor in the Department of Music at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He has conducted more than 50 different symphony orchestras all across the globe and has worked with such artists as Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, and Carrie Underwood to name a few.
Mary Wadsworth White is an accomplished visual artist and active supporter of theater and music, as well as a promoter of the arts in public education. Mrs. White serves on the board for the Florence/Lauderdale Public Library; The Shoals Symphony at UNA; Shoals Family Success Center; Tennessee Valley Art Museum and the University of North Alabama Foundation.
The Council elected a new slate of officers for two-year terms through 2017. Dora James of Opelika was elected Chairman, Joel Daves IV of Mobile, Vice-Chair and Dr. Rachel Brown Fowler of Columbiana, Secretary of the Council.