Betsey Horth’s Leadership Will Matter and Be Remembered for Years to Come

by SETC Executive Director Susie Prueter

When I look back on my career, I thank my lucky stars to have been afforded opportunities and resources that brought me to where I am today. One of the things that enthuses me about SETC is our potential to provide similar tangible support, especially in the form of scholarships, awards and grants, to today’s theatre artists.

It is truly my privilege to announce a new SETC funding opportunity … the Betsey Horth Arts Administration Advancement Grant. At the 2019 SETC Convention in Knoxville, a very special leadership gift was made by John Spiegel to start a fund in honor of Betsey, recognizing her 20 years of service as SETC’s executive director.

SETC is thrilled to offer this grant for the benefit of arts administrators and volunteer organizational leadership, such as a Board of Directors. As we see interest in the field of arts administration growing significantly at SETC, this grant is a fitting service for our constituents, complementing SETC’s existing financial support programs for actors, technicians, playwrights and teachers. Who Can Apply The grant program, designed by Betsey herself, is a flexible funding source that may be applied for by:

- an emerging or a seasoned administrator seeking leadership development, specialized training or skills improvement;

- an organization looking to hire a newly graduated arts administrator or to advance its leadership through training in areas such as fundraising.

The purpose of the grant is to provide a broad opportunity for developing, re-tuning or expanding leadership and/or management skills or areas.

Growing the Fund

The fund is already well underway, thanks to additional generous contributions from Betsey and her husband, David, and Past President Jack Benjamin. With gratitude to Betsey and in the spirit of giving back, I followed John Spiegel’s visionary lead and contributed as well. Plans are in the works to make the inaugural award in the summer of 2020.

This grant has the potential to create a significant impact on the proficiency and leadership skills of our arts administrators. Thank you for joining us in contributing to this worthwhile fund and supporting the craft of arts administration at SETC! And thank you, Betsey!

How to Donate

If you would like to contribute to the Betsey Horth Arts Administration Advancement Grant fund, please visit https://store.setc.org/product/setc-70th-anniversary/ and scroll down to designate this fund to receive your contribution.