Sessions, speakers set for S.C. Arts Leadership Institute

A professional development retreat for arts org leaders

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: Friday, January 23, 2026 | $240 per attendee

The South Carolina Arts Commission and South Carolina Arts Alliance are calling leaders at the state’s arts organizations to make—and take—the time to network, share, and focus on relevant topics and tools.

The S.C. Arts Leadership Institute is seeking to build off a successful debut in FY25 with an all-new lineup in FY26 on Feb. 24-26, 2026 at Clemson University.

Generous support from the Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation is once again helping to make the ALI possible.

This year’s topics and tools for better arts administration are now available and include:

• “Intelligent Reinvention – Leading Organizations and Designing Strategy in the Face of Uncertainty,” a keynote presentation by Ace Callwood
• “The Thresholds of Leadership” with artist and SCAC Fellowship recipient Marlanda Dekine
• “Thriving for High Performers: The Grind and the Glory” with Alan Dow
• “Communication Across Boundaries: Using Improv to Build Trust, Spark Connection, and Lead with Empathy” with Elizabeth Byland
• “Building Community through Arts & Culture,” a panel discussion with Richland Library and artists Brittany Watkins & Terrance Henderson

You can also expect to get better equipped in the areas of accessibility and advocacy.

Tuition for the S.C. Arts Leadership Institute is just $240 per person, with lodging and meals included. Registration is limited to executive-level leadership only (executive/artistic/managing directors and board presidents, etc.). You may register more than one individual from your organization as long as they meet these criteria.

For those who qualify, scholarships are available to help defray cost and you can also apply for an SCAC Arts Project Support grant to cover expenses. All details are available here.