On Jan. 21, it was announced that the president of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center and Colorado College President Jill Tiefenthaler have been conversing about the possibility of forging a future together.
The Fine Arts Center (FAC), built in 1936 and located on the corner of Cascade and Dale Street, is a multi-discipline arts institution. From museum showcases to stand-up comedy acts, and even in its role as a theatre and arts school, the FAC seems to have everything under one roof.
The Colorado Springs FAC Board of Trustees and the CC Board of Trustees agreed that by joining forces, each institution could benefit—whether it be financially, artistically, or culturally. No official decisions have been made, but both institutions are optimistic about the partnership.
Rumors were circulating, saying that the FAC would be a gift to CC—specifically, the second largest gift ever given to a liberal arts college. Tiefenthaler, however, says that there are no specific details out there about the FAC being a “gift,” as the two institutional boards have just begun the negotiation process.
As of now, the only progress appears to be a board member vote to endorse the proposal, and a vote to propel leadership holders in the direction of discussion and negotiation to make this partnership possible.
CC and the FAC share a long history of collaboration. CC professors organize class field trips to the building, and students are often offered discounts when the FAC hosts special events or programs.
The majority of Colorado Springs citizens are in support of this partnership, as it would promote an even stronger sense of community between CC and the FAC and a closer bond between CC and the regional community.
“I think it would be a great resource for us students and would reflect well on the college,” said sophomore Kyla Jarka.
CC board members are rooting for the collaboration between the two institutions, as it would help the school develop its sense of place, as well. An enhanced sense of place has been one of the school’s key initiatives for the past few years.
While this is all the information that can currently be provided on the subject, President Tiefenthaler will continue to update the student body via email on the collaboration effort.