A Conversation with
Keri Dillingham, Executive Director of BCAH By Bette Erickson
Much goodness came out of 2020, along with a number of nearly insurmountable challenges. On a pleasant afternoon just before Christmas, I had the opportunity to talk with Executive Director of the Broomfield Council on the Arts and Humanities (BCAH), Keri Dillingham. I wanted to find out how her organization fared through the pandemic of the past year and where it’s headed.
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his year has shown us more than ever that the arts are a great connector,” explained Dillingham. She’s been with BCAH for seven years. “We need the arts to awaken our smiles. BCAH works to make that happen. Having arts raises and awakens hope, not only now but for years to come.” Before becoming executive director, she used her business background, marketing, and writing skills in other meaningful capacities. Dillingham has a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology from CU Boulder. She has lived in Broomfield for 20 years. BCAH lost its president and treasurer this past fall. Sherill Bunetta was with BCAH for 25 years and her absence is palpable. She and Dillingham had a strong, mutually respectful working relationship and friendship. Mrs. Bunetta died Oct. 24, leaving behind her husband, Ed, of 54 years. The couple lived in Broomfield since 1967 and Our Broomfield™ Magazine | February 2021
raised their three kids here. Those who knew her valued her kind spirit. “Losing Sherill thrust me into recognizing all that she’d done,” Dillingham shared. “Arts, culture, and science are essential to the community. With Sherill being gone, it’s proven to me that we need more volunteers.” Since Sherill’s death Dillingham has picked up the role of doing financial reports. “We’re currently looking for a treasurer and bookkeeper,” Dillingham said. “Volunteers who are willing to contribute their accounting skills.” Dillingham said one of her many goals for the organization is to remain sustainable first and to grow in getting a variety of diverse, creative programs. “One of BCAH’s goals is to offer a creative community,” she explains. “A place for creative people and artists. One of our main focuses is to have a place for creatives (artists, performers, and inventors) to express themselves, and giving residents diverse experiences right here in their community.” The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic has really cut into the charitable monetary donations that BCAH typically receives.
