Shelia Sears

Sheila Sears epitomizes the unsung heroes of the arts community, her legacy resonating deeply within Colorado's public and non-profit sectors. Through decades of dedicated service, Sheila's tireless efforts have seamlessly integrated the arts into numerous communities across the state. Her journey as an advocate for the arts began in the late 1970s, coinciding with a pivotal period of cultural evolution in Colorado. From her formative years at the Boulder Center for the Visual Arts to her tenure as Executive Director of Think 360 Arts for Learning (then called Young Audiences of Colorado), Sheila demonstrated a remarkable ability to not only bring the arts to communities but also foster a profound appreciation for creative expression among diverse folks.

One notable testament to Sheila's impact was her swift response in the aftermath of the Columbine High School tragedy in 1999. Within days, she mobilized teaching artists, secured funding, and implemented a comprehensive plan to aid in the community's healing process through the transformative power of the arts. This initiative, lasting three years and serving as a national model for recovery responses, exemplifies Sheila's deep dedication to utilizing the arts for positive social change.

As Deputy Director of Colorado Creative Industries, Sheila's leadership prowess truly shone. She led initiatives that transcended conventional boundaries, forging partnerships and collaborations that revitalized Colorado's cultural landscape. Whether developing arts education programs reaching over 130,000 students annually or pioneering the Colorado Youth Poet Laureate Program, Sheila consistently showcased her innovative spirit and steadfast commitment to fostering creativity and inclusion.

Even in retirement, Sheila continues to leave an indelible mark on the arts landscape through her consultancy work and volunteer efforts. Her involvement in projects aimed at developing creative solutions for community issues underscores her enduring dedication to harnessing the arts as a catalyst for positive change. Sheila's emphasis on inclusivity and her profound understanding of rural and small communities across the state ensure that her impact extends far beyond urban centers, reaching individuals from all walks of life. In this effort, Sheila has proudly visited 62 of Colorado’s 64 counties.

As we reflect on Sheila's contributions, it becomes clear that her legacy transcends mere experiences listed on a resume. She embodies the values of collaboration, innovation, and ethical leadership, serving as an inspiration to aspiring advocates and creatives alike. In honoring Sheila Sears as an unsung hero of the arts community, we not only celebrate her remarkable achievements but also reaffirm the transformative power of the arts in shaping vibrant, resilient communities. It is with great pride that we propose including Sheila in the mural, thereby recognizing and elevating a person whose quiet dedication has long fueled the heart of our cultural landscape.

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*Each organization nominated their honoree with an essay. Those essays are posted here, as submitted, to maintain the organization's unique voice and authenticity.

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