Melissa Donovan
The Downtown Arts District—one of Downtown Orlando’s most prominent advocates for the arts—has announced its new Board of Directors for the 2025–2026 term. The newly appointed leadership will continue to drive the organization’s mission to expand access to the arts and boost Downtown Orlando’s cultural and economic vitality through engaging exhibitions, public art programs, and professional development for artists.
The incoming board includes:
Chairman of the Board: Daniel Betancourt (Brightline Trains)
Vice Chairman: Casey Hall (Orlando Health)
Treasurer: Heather Dartez, PhD (Full Sail University)
Secretary: Lindsey Hahn (Realtor®, ALL Real Estate & Investments)
Parliamentarian: Jaison Radcliff (Form 2 Fashion / The Paper Bar Co.)
Immediate Past Chairman of the Board: Kyle Sturley (Greater Orlando Sports Commission)
Board Members: Carol Burkett (Orange County Government), Samantha Daniels (Valley Bank), Marcia Hope Goodwin (City of Orlando), Thomas Kehr (Cole Engineering Services, Inc.), and Stefani Lockman (Siemens).
“I couldn’t be more honored to assume the role of Chairman of the Board for the Downtown Arts District at such an exciting moment in the organization’s history,” Betancourt said in a press release. “Over the past four years serving on the board and volunteering with the Downtown Arts District staff, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this institution has on Orlando’s creative community. I’m proud to help carry that legacy forward and continue supporting the growth and vibrancy of Downtown Orlando’s arts, culture, and economy.”
Downtown Arts District serves as a cornerstone of Orlando’s cultural landscape and is home to CityArts, a globally recognized collection of galleries located in the historic Rogers Kiene Building. Beyond CityArts, the District oversees a variety of venues dedicated to visual and performing arts and curates numerous programs that highlight Central Florida’s creative talent.
To close out 2025, the organization will host a full lineup of events, including the CityArts Café Grand Opening in November, the award-winning 3rd Thursday monthly art programs, and the Midnight on Magnolia New Year’s Eve Party (tickets available at MidnightOnMagnolia2026.Eventbrite.com). Supporters can also contribute through the upcoming United Arts Collaborative Campaign, with updates available on social media (Facebook: @downtownartsdistrict, Instagram: @downtownartsorlando).
“It has been an honor to serve as Chairman of the Downtown Arts District for the last two years, working alongside so many passionate advocates for Orlando’s creative community. I’m proud to have contributed to milestones such as the completion of the Fordify the Arts Courtyard project and our team’s participation in the DeVos Institute Capacity Building program, both of which have strengthened the organization for years to come,” Sturley said. “Thank you to Executive Director Barbara Hartley and her entire team for their leadership and dedication, and I’m excited to support Danny and our new slate of officers as they continue to advance the District’s mission and momentum.”
The Downtown Arts District continues to invite residents and visitors alike to experience the city’s creative pulse at one of the many galleries and performance venues located throughout Downtown Orlando.
For more information, visit downtownartsdistrict.com.
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