Spirit of Atlanta Board Grows with Five New Dynamic Additions
ATLANTA, GA – The Spirit of Atlanta is delighted to announce the addition of five distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone in the organization's expansion. Each of the new board members brings a unique skill set, vast expertise, and a shared commitment to promote the performing arts through the Spirit of Atlanta.
George Dickinson, Board President, expressed his enthusiasm for the new appointments, stating, "The addition of these five individuals represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of Spirit of Atlanta. Their combined expertise and dedication to service will undoubtedly guide our organization into an exciting new chapter. We eagerly anticipate the insight and innovative ideas they'll bring to the table."
Executive Director Jason Burns further echoed Dickinson's sentiment. "We're thrilled to welcome such a diverse and experienced group to our board. Their collective breadth and depth of knowledge will contribute to our continual growth and allow us to provide the best educational opportunities for our members."
Chris Cloar, the Director of Development for the Vanderbilt School of Nursing, will bring his fundraising and relationship-building skills to the board. Cloar’s success in increasing new commitments year over year, and his ability to build strained relationships, will help guide Spirit of Atlanta’s fundraising efforts. As an instructor with the John Overton High School Marching Band, Cloar also brings his passion for music and education to the organization.
Andrew Downard, the Executive Vice President of Supply Chain at Mativ, adds an extensive global leadership experience to the board. With past roles ranging from VP to Six Sigma-certified professional, Downard has a proven track record in transforming organizations through people, processes, and systems across multiple industries. His supply chain expertise and operational acumen will undoubtedly assist in strengthening the operational efficiency of the Spirit of Atlanta.
Jason Ford, brings to the table a rich background in public service and economic development. As the Economic Development Director for the City of Hartwell, Georgia, and a decorated veteran of the United States Army, Georgia Army National Guard, Ford has proven his dedication to his community. His diverse education, including degrees in Human Services, Leadership, and International Policy Management, equips him with a well-rounded perspective that will serve the organization well.
Dendy Jarrett, the Executive Director of the Gibson Foundation, has an impressive history in the music non-profit sector. With substantial experience in marketing, communications, and public relations, Jarrett's track record includes significant fundraising success and exceptional non-profit partnership relations. His extensive D&I coaching, programming, and design skills will serve as a major asset to the organization.
Daniel Reuther, currently serving as an Operations Programs Specialist at the United States Postal Service, joins the board with a keen sense of financial acumen and a lifelong enthusiasm for the performing arts. Reuther's role at USPS involves intricate budget management at the district level, preparing him well to help guide the Spirit of Atlanta in a financially sustainable direction. Moreover, his passion for drum and bugle corps will be an invaluable asset as we strive to enhance our members' educational experience.
About Spirit of Atlanta
Founded in 1976, the Spirit of Atlanta is Georgia based performing arts organization whose primary mission is to provide young musicians and artists with opportunities to develop life and personal skills through affirmative, high-quality, challenging arts and athletic education programs emphasizing character building, a strong work ethic, teamwork, and the pursuit of performance excellence. Its primary program, Spirit of Atlanta Drum and Bugle Corps, is a 20-time Drum Corps International World-Class finalist. Comprised of 165 members between the ages of 14-21, the group travels across the United States each year to compete and perform for hundreds of thousands of fans. Performers spend hundreds of hours perfecting a 12-minute show performed on a football field using brass, percussion, color guard (flags and rifles), dance, and other exciting performance elements. The organization is sponsored by Friends of Spirit Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)(3).