To the editor:

I met Susan Tate, Lawrence Arts Center CEO, when she began her first assignment with the Lawrence public schools, teaching eighth grade English at Central Junior High School. She was an exceptional teacher and continued her career in education at Lawrence High School. Susan also became involved in the Lawrence community beyond the schoolhouse doors.

In 2009, when I heard that she was taking the reins at the Lawrence Arts Center, my first thought was of what a loss that would be to Lawrence High School. My second thought was that the LAC board got it right this time! Susan would be the perfect fit for the Arts Center! I was sad to learn that she will leave the Arts Center at the end of this year, but happy to hear that she will continue to contribute as a consultant.

I hope the Arts Center board continues to “think outside the box” when hiring a new CEO, and for me that means taking a good look inside the Lawrence community. Susan Tate spent her adult, working life contributing to the people of Lawrence, and she deserves their gratitude and good wishes for her future endeavors.