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A Lifelong Love Affair With The Arts

SAAC

Penny Wollan-Kriel will retire at the end of next month as Executive Director of the Springfield Area Arts Council.  But she won't give up her connection to the arts community. 

'I am definitely staying back.  I do not want to be someone looking over the shoulder of the new Executive Director," she said.  "I will continue my involvement in the arts and with children."

She is a Springfield native who grew up dancing. Her  connection to the arts goes back to her childhood. Wollan-Kriel has spent a combined 17 years with the arts council. 

"We don't have those big huge dollars. But the businesses and the individuals in this area give and give and give. It just makes me stand in awe," she said.

Upon leaving, she wants her successor to have some money in reserve.  So she has developed a fundraising campaign called "In Honor Of 17 Years.."  Contributions in $17 increments are being accepted.

"We advocate for the arts and we have a lot of programs that assist arts organizations and other social service organizations.  So we really give back to the city," she said.

A party in Wollan-Kriel's honor is also set for Monday August 18 from 5-9 p.m.  at the Hoogland in Theatre 3.   More details and to RSVP call 753-3519.

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