A Year of Creativity and Connection
January 1, 2026
When a year ends, it’s natural to pause and reflect on the moments that stayed with us and the work that brought people together. Here at the Center for the Arts, that reflection brings us back to our 2024-2025 performance season, which was filled with shared experiences across our stages, galleries, classrooms, and communities.
Over the course of that season, we increased attendance, expanded programming, and provided new opportunities for audiences, students, and schools across Southwest Virginia to connect through the arts.
Our 2024-25 arts impact report illustrates how the arts continue to inspire curiosity, build community, and create hands-on learning opportunities for people of all ages. The report captures the depth and vibrancy of the year’s work, emphasizing access, learning, and experiences that spark imagination and bring people together.
With the generous support of our donors and partners, we were able to share a vibrant season of performances, exhibitions, workshops, and community programs. Here are just a few highlights:
- 47,565 people engaging through performances, exhibitions, workshops, and community events.
- Over 13,700 visitors to the visual arts galleries, featuring 10 exhibitions and the work of 20 visual artists.
- 914 Virginia Tech students receiving free rush tickets.
- 3,857 Virginia Tech students participating in workshops, master classes, open rehearsals, and other engagement activities.
- Artists visiting 84 Virginia Tech classes.
- 85 Virginia Tech student employees gaining hands-on experience in production, patron services, box office, and gallery operations.
- 6,189 PK–12 students participating in gallery tours, artist engagement activities, and special school-day matinee performances.
The full 2024-25 arts impact report is available online.
Donor support helps make this work possible. Contributions to the center help sustain programs that welcome students into the arts, support emerging talent, and strengthen the region’s cultural landscape.