On February 15, I had the distinct pleasure of joining the County of Los Angeles as Executive Director of the Arts Commission. In these first weeks, I have engaged with the Arts Commission in action, meeting with staff at every level of the agency and diving into core programs in every division—Civic Art, Arts Education, Grants & Professional Development and Research & Evaluation.

During this time, we met with advisors to the Cultural Equity and Inclusion Initiative (CEII) to reflect on our work to date and momentum for the future ahead. We strategized with leaders of the Arts Education Collective on the path to achieving quality arts education in every school district in Los Angeles County. We convened a cohort of municipal arts funders to dialogue on cultural equity and grantmaking, and are working with colleagues on a number of cross-sector initiatives that are underway. I met scores of grantees and cultural organizations, artists, philanthropists and civic leaders—all who share a passion for and a commitment to arts and culture.

I want to acknowledge the continued collaboration of the Arts Commissioners and our many partners in the creative field. I am eager to work with all of you as we advance arts and culture in Los Angeles and beyond. We have an exciting 2018 ahead. Looking forward!

—Kristin Sakoda

Kristin Sakoda's Welcome Reception