SENATOR WASHINGTON APPOINTED TO SEDGWICK CENTER BOARD

          HARRISBURG, August 23 – State Senator LeAnna M. Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) has been appointed to the Board of the Sedgwick Cultural Center.

          “I am honored and pleased to be a part of the glorious cultural tradition of the Sedgwick,” Washington said.  “The Sedgwick is one of the most important cultural and economic institutions in our community and I look forward to serving on the Board and working to strengthen and stabilize the Center.”  

          Board President Nina Ahmad said she was “very pleased” to have Washington join the Board.  “It is fabulous to have someone become a part of our Board who knows how to get things done and who knows how to get to the heart of issues,” Ahmad said.

          Ahmad said that because Washington is a resident and a legislator, “she understands quality of life issues in our community.”  She said Washington would help the Center in reaching its goals and fulfilling its mission. “This is truly a new beginning with her on the Board,” Ahmad added.

          Ahmad said the Sedgwick Center is “not only a cultural and arts organization” but is also involved with commerce and the revitalization of the community. “We are a cultural economic development entity,” Ahmad said.

          “The Sedgwick is a beacon for the Avenue,” Ahmad continued. “It has been for some time.  Senator Washington will help take the Sedgwick to a new level.  We had a plan and Senator Washington fits into that plan.  It is extremely valuable to have her on our side to champion our cause.”

          The Sedgwick Cultural Center, dedicated to building community through the arts, provides a common meeting ground in the heart of Philadelphia's Historic Northwest.  Neighbors can celebrate individual perspectives and shared visions through the arts.

          “We see ourselves as not only a visual and performing arts center,” Ahmad continued, “but also a place where artist of all ethnic, religious, socioeconomic backgrounds can come together and enjoy.”

          The Sedgwick produces and presents a broad spectrum of quality programming in the visual and performing arts. The Center reflects the energy and creativity of the community, bringing together artists and audiences of many ethnic and religious traditions, age groups, and socio-economic levels who feel at home in this historic, interracial community. In addition, the Sedgwick strengthens the public life of the community by attracting neighbors and newcomers to Mt. Airy's Germantown Avenue.