HOW TO CREATE AMAZING

Jeff Kimpton, President of Interlochen Center for the Arts, gave great insight into recent successes for the largest arts and cultural center in Michigan.

He reviewed the impressive growth for the school and the economic impact for our region. Rotarians in attendance were also treated to an amazing, live musical performance by Interlochen students.

He shared that his goal was to “take Interlochen forward in to a new century and a new millennium.”

Leading an organization that has 90 years of history, Mr. Kimpton found that one of their biggest challenges was to remain relevant to a younger consumer base. A recent survey of arts educators and professionals uncovered an issue.

“Those under the age of 30 only had a five percent recognition of who we were,” he said.  Utilizing new marketing ideas and technology played a major role in raising awareness, and enrollment, and becoming a cultural hub for the world. 

Another key moment came in 2006 when Interlochen Center for the Arts was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President George W. Bush. This acknowledgment could have been seen as an end result, but actually was the start of creating a “long view” for Interlochen Center’s next 25 years, he said.

This vision paid off as overall revenue has consistently increased, and charitable giving and investments have grown.  Other achievements included creating an award-winning digital presence for the school, and a more culturally diverse campus.

Even as Interlochen Center’s tuition went up, it has had no effect on applications from new students, Mr. Kimpton said.  He noted that financial aid has allowed more students from middle-class households get access to world-class resources.

While they continue to pursue growth and expanding their influence, “our home is here”, Mr. Kimpton said. He shared the pride and appreciation for Interlochen Center for Arts’ continued connection with the people who live and work in northern Michigan.

Interlochen Center for the Arts’ “Create Amazing” fundraising campaign has already exceeded its original goal, and is well on its way to $100 million.  Mr. Kimpton shared that these funds will be invested in to programs such as scholarships and research, and support for dance and visual arts, and they’re looking to break ground on a new music building in spring 2017.