The Board of Directors of Texas Center for Arts + Academics in Fort Worth announced July 16 that they recently accepted the resignation of Clint Riley, who has served as president & CEO since 2012. Riley notified the Board of his intention to resign, citing plans to pursue other professional opportunities. Riley’s last day in his current role will be July 16, 2019, though he will be providing assistance with the transition in leadership to ensure stable operations of the organization and its schools, conservatories, and programs.
Under Riley’s leadership, the organization initiated a strategic review and rebranding in 2013 that created Texas Center for Arts + Academics, leading to increased community awareness, with greater financial support and participation, as well as establishing a dynamic platform for future growth. The artistic and academic programs of Texas Center for Arts + Academics have been strengthened and expanded, including adding an afterschool program of Texas Boys Choir, designing and launching Texas Dance Conservatory and Texas Art Conservatory, and developing new community outreach and arts programs specifically for underserved children, among other achievements.
“Clint was the right man, at the right time, for the job and this organization. His ability to think strategically was key to the many successes we experienced. Among his many strengths is his thoughtful and collaborative approach to problem-solving, working to hear all constituents’ voices and to build consensus toward a shared vision. His vision aligned with that of board leadership perfectly and he was a passionate champion for our mission within the organization as well as out into our community. He successfully assisted us in identifying our strategic initiatives and the steps needed to advance them, and his skillful leadership quickly got everyone on the same page. We have accomplished much in his seven years,” said Melissa Goodroe, current Board Chair. “I have no doubt that he will continue to be successful in his career.”
Michael Wellbaum, immediate Past Chair and member of the search committee leading to Riley’s appointment in 2012, added, “Clint’s business acumen and arts management experience were key reasons for his selection and why he was successful in strengthening and expanding the programs at TCAA; he will certainly be missed.”
“Serving our community of students, families, and greater Fort Worth has been a great pleasure and one of my proudest professional endeavors,” Riley said. “I love all that Texas Center for Arts + Academics stands for: the pursuit of excellence, creativity in collaboration, and engaging young people in artistic and academic exploration. Though I won’t be here to enjoy personally the next phase in TCAA’s future, I know that future will be bright. TCAA has become and will continue to be a beacon of inspiration for so many children, lighting the way as it has for more than 70 years.”
The Board of Directors has formed a search committee tasked with identifying and retaining an interim president & CEO. Also, the Board will initiate a national search for a permanent replacement.