Amon G. Carter's enduring philanthropic contributions ensure a sustainable and promising future for students at Texas Center for Arts + Academics’ (TCA+A) schools, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and Texas School of the Arts.
The foundation grant received marks the initial phase of a comprehensive strategy aimed at securing the ongoing development and sustainability of both school’s facilities.
FORT WORTH, TEXAS (Nov 20, 2024) – After thorough evaluation and deliberation, TCA+A’s CEO/President, Dr. Anika Perkins and Development Director, Torie Skinner developed a detailed and unique proposal to submit to the Amon G. Carter Foundation. The objective was to differentiate the proposal by outlining a complete list of requests and pressing needs for both schools. This outline was subsequently presented to John H. Robinson, Executive Vice President of the Amon G. Carter Foundation, who brought it before his board on November 12th.
Mr. Robinson recently announced the exciting news that the foundation awarded an $85,000 grant to TCA+A. The Carter Foundation has maintained a longstanding philanthropic relationship with TCA+A for decades, consistently providing essential support to the organization. This year's grant comes at a crucial time, as the organization has assessed both buildings and acknowledges the necessity of developing a long-term sustainability plan.
“The Carter Foundation recognizes the important role Texas Center for Arts + Academics plays in our community through charter schools offering rigorous academics as well as training in choir, dance, theatre, and the visual arts. We are aware TCA+A has operated the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts on Hulen for more than twenty years and the Texas School of Arts location on Hemphill for more than ten. The Carter Foundation commends the new leadership team for its desire to have outside experts conduct a comprehensive facility assessment at both locations. We are pleased to participate in funding this fiduciary activity to help develop a long-range plan to prioritize improvements."- John H. Robinson, Executive Vice President Amon G. Carter Foundation
Recently new to TCA+A, Mrs. Skinner has been hard at work learning the short- and long-term needs and must haves of the organization. “As Director of Development at Texas Center for Arts + Academics, I am thrilled and deeply grateful for the generous support of the Amon Carter Foundation. This grant is a pivotal step in advancing our mission to foster excellence in arts education. By enabling us to conduct a comprehensive facility assessment at both of our campuses, Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts and Texas School of the Arts, this funding will provide us with critical insights and long-term planning goals to ensure our facilities continue to inspire creativity, learning, and growth for years to come.”- Torie Skinner, Development Director TCA+A
Both schools are currently operating at high enrollment capacity, with certain grade levels experiencing waitlists. This situation highlights the significant demand for Fine Arts schools in the DFW area and offers valuable insights into future admissions trends. The Amon G Carter Foundation has significantly contributed to the development of the organization in recent decades, and their steadfast support demonstrates a strong belief in the mission of TCA+A.
“We are thrilled that the Amon G. Carter Foundation has partnered with TCA+A on this ambitious project. Their continued support and generous funding have been instrumental to our success. We could not provide the impactful programs and opportunities for children without their unwavering commitment.”- Anika Perkins, President/CEO TCA+A
"On behalf of the Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Robinson and Amon G. Carter for their enduring partnership with the Texas Center for Arts and Academics. Their generous philanthropic support plays a vital role in advancing our mission to provide a bright future for students through excellence in arts and academics within our public charter school systems." - Leslie Scott's TCA+A Board Chairman
The Amon G. Carter Foundation is a non-profit organization based in Texas, founded in 1945 by Amon G. and Nenetta Burton Carter. The Foundation provides grants to support initiatives in art and culture, civic and public affairs, education, health, and human services. A significant portion of these grants is allocated to projects and programs within Tarrant County, Texas. For more information please visit: agcf.org
