Art for All
CEO Jess Abbott leads with innovation and heart at the Greenville Center for Creative Arts
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JESS ABBOTT IS A CREATOR AND A CONNECTOR. The CEO of the thriving Greenville Center for Creative Arts (GCCA) is a forward-thinker with a knack for innovation. Jess believes in the transformative power of art, and she is committed to creating inclusive and accessible programming to uplift underserved communities.
Prior to her role at GCCA, Jess was the executive director of Dogtown Dance Theatre in Richmond, Virginia. With a passion for dance, Jess fostered an environment where cultural diversity thrived.
When she’s not ensuring that the arts remain accessible to all, Jess is digging up produce from her garden or enjoying a Sunday afternoon watching sports with her husband at their favorite brewery.
OPEN DIALOGUE » What’s on your mind?
Lately, I’ve been feeling a growing concern about the state of our country, especially with the ongoing drama surrounding the upcoming political election. This uncertainty seeps into every aspect of my day-to-day experience, adding an extra layer of stress and contemplation.
On a professional level, the turbulence affects my work with the GCCA. The arts have always been a beacon of hope and expression, but in times of political unrest, their role becomes even more critical. Are we providing enough support and inspiration to our community in these challenging times? Is the footprint we’re leaving behind substantial enough to foster change and resilience?
Balancing these thoughts is tough. On one hand, I am deeply committed to our mission at GCCA, striving to create a nurturing environment for creativity and artistic expression. On the other, the broader societal issues make me reflect on the long-term effectiveness and reach of our efforts. It’s a delicate dance between maintaining focus on our goals and adapting to the shifting landscape around us.