Members of Americans for the Arts have elected Scott Whiteley Carter as a member of their advisory council for the Private Sector. Carter will advise Americans for the Arts’ staff on developing programs and services that will build a deeper connection to the field and the network membership.

In the Private Sector Council, Carter will work with fellow arts leaders to develop and implement private-sector advocacy programs and serve as leaders to other local arts agencies seeking to connect with the private sector.

Carter, a Little Rock native, currently serves as the Public Affairs and Creative Economy Advisor for the City of Little Rock. In this position, he works to capitalize on momentum taking place within Little Rock’s corporate and creative communities. In addition, he is the staff liaison to the City’s Arts+Culture Commission, various cultural organizations, and serves as the City of Little Rock historian.

“This is an exciting time in Little Rock. The arts and creative sectors are important as we work to increase emphasis on economic development and also quality of life, which are two key initiatives of our mayor. I look forward to not only exploring how other cities are leveraging the collaborations between corporate and creative entities, but also to sharing the innovative things we are doing here,” Carter said.

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. said he asked Carter to focus on the intersection between the arts and economic development by naming him the City’s Public Affairs and Creative Economy Advisor in 2019.

“His service on the Private Sector Council will not only give him the opportunity to play a role in national arts policy, but also to share what we are doing in Little Rock as well as to see best practices in other cities,” Mayor Scott said. “As we work to Unite Little Rock, the arts must play an important role in creating jobs and improving the quality of life. Locally and nationally, Scott is dedicated to this initiative.”

Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts welcomed Carter and other new members to the advisory council.

“Americans for the Arts strives to cultivate the next generation of arts leaders in America, and these leaders are willing to dedicate their time and expertise to work with peers across the country to shape national programs and messages and help craft services for states, communities, and local organizations,” Lynch said. “I applaud them for their valued contribution and commitment that will undoubtedly improve the state of arts in America.”

Potential council members were nominated in September and were voted on by members of Americans for the Arts through November 15, 2019. Carter will serve a two-year term, from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021.

Americans for the Arts is the leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts and arts education in America. With offices in Washington, D.C. and New York City, it has a record of more than 55 years of service. Americans for the Arts is dedicated to representing and serving local communities and creating opportunities for every American to participate in and appreciate all forms of the arts. Additional information is available at www.AmericansForTheArts.org.