Think 360 Arts’ Diamond Jubilee: A Historical Dive

Join us for a memorable afternoon as Think 360 Arts marks its 60th Anniversary with a panel discussion charting our transformative journey in arts education. This special event will be moderated by our Executive Director, Daisy McGowan, and Board Chair, Molly Casey.

Dive deep into the rich history and evolution of Think 360 Arts with insights from our former Executive Directors, dedicated board members, and some of our cherished, longstanding teaching artists. Together, they'll weave a tapestry of tales, milestones, and impactful moments that have defined our mission and vision over the past six decades.

Whether you've been with us since the beginning, or are just getting to know Think 360 Arts, this panel promises a blend of nostalgia, inspiration, and forward-looking aspirations. Let's celebrate the past, cherish the present, and anticipate the future of arts education together!

Panelists include: Jane Hansberry, Jean Hodges, Tony Ortega, Sheila Sears, Kathy Spuhler, and Bruce Uhrmacher

The panel discussion will take place the Hamilton Recital Hall in the Newman Center for the Performing Arts at 3:00 pm. Light refreshments will be provided at a reception to follow immediately at the famed “Pio” across the street. Please ensure you RSVP to secure your spot, as seating is limited.

We look forward to celebrating this landmark occasion with our wonderful community. See you there!

About the Moderators: Meet the Panelists

Jane Hansberry

is a lecturer, formerly Associate Clinical Professor at SPA, and teaches in the MPA and BAPA programs. Prior to coming to SPA full time in fall of 2015, Jane was the Managing Director of Think 360 Arts Complete Education from 2010-2014.

From 2006-2008 she was the Executive

Director of the Foundation for Human Enrichment (FHE). Jane’s areas of interest include the economic impact of arts

and culture, nonprofit and public sector governance and organizational development, regional cultural asset districts, and the facilitation of collaboration.

Jean Hodges

joined the Young Audiences Denver chapter's Board of Directors, which later became the Colorado Chapter of Young Audiences, in 1980. Jean also joined the Young Audiences National Board in 1986.

Over the years, Jean has observed the evolution from individual presentations to enriching workshops and residencies. Notably, the expansion into Senior Living Centers has had a deep impact. Throughout her journey, Jean has greatly benefited from consulting with affiliates nationwide, familiarizing herself with their Boards, Staff, and Teaching Artists.

Tony Ortega

is a Denver-based artist, educator, and a Think 360 Arts teaching artist for over 30 years. His work has been exhibited in over

30 solo shows and featured in numerous exhibitions including at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Denver, CO, Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art,

He holds an MFA in drawing and painting from the University of Colorado Boulder and teaches at Regis University. Ortega has received notable awards, including the Governor's Award for Excellence in the Arts (1999) and the Mayor's Award for Excellence in the Arts (1998). To explore his work, click here.

Sheila Sears

was the Executive Director of Young Audiences of Colorado from August 1994 – July 2002. Since her retirement as the Deputy Director of Colorado Creative Industries, she has done consulting and volunteer projects in developing creative solutions for community issues related to arts, education, partnerships,

cultural access and equity.

Sheila considers her professional strengths the cultivation of relationships and partnerships among diverse constituents. Over the course of her career, she has visited and made connections in 62 of Colorado’s 64 counties.

Kathy Spuhler

was previously served on the BIO Douglas County Cultural Council. Subsequently, she was the appointment by the Douglas County Commissioners to serve two terms on the SCFD Board of Directors, including one year as the Chair.

With great fondness, Kathy remembers embarking on her 14 year experience as Executive Director of a small non profit called the Denver Chapter of Young Audiences, Inc. (now Think 360 Arts!) in a piano practice room within the Baldwin Piano Building. She continues to be amazed at the opportunities, talented artists and leaders that make up the cultural landscape of the greater Denver area.

Bruce Uhrmacher

is Professor of Research Methods and Statistics; and Curriculum and Instruction at the Morgridge College of Education, University of Denver. Over the years, he is written about aesthetic approaches to teaching, learning, and curriculum.

Between 1993-2022 he served as the faculty liaison to the Institute of Creative Teaching (formerly, the Aesthetic Education Institute of Colorado).

Talk title: “Reflections on the Aesthetic Education Institute of Colorado”

About the Moderators:

Daisy McGowan

Since January 2023, Daisy McGowan has led Think 360 Arts for Learning as Executive Director, advancing arts education across Colorado. With over 25 years in the field, she has worked across K-12, higher education, and nonprofits, most recently as UCCS Galleries of Contemporary Art Director.

An alumnus of Colorado College with an MPA from the University of Colorado, Daisy works collaboratively to support Think 360 Arts in its mission of inclusive arts learning.

Molly Casey

Molly Casey stands at the forefront of the arts world as the Chief Curator for Nine Dot Arts, where her keen aesthetic sense and curatorial expertise breathe life into every project. Beyond her pivotal role at Nine Dot Arts, Molly extends her commitment to arts education as the esteemed Board Chair for Think 360 Arts for Learning.

 In both capacities, she consistently champions the transformative power of art and education, creating spaces where creativity flourishes and communities thrive. With a deep-seated passion for the arts and a vision for a more inclusive and inspired world, Molly continues to leave an indelible mark on the art and education sectors.