AWAACC @ 15: Janis Burley Wilson, President/CEO of the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, celebrates its 15th anniversary

“Fifteen years ago, on September 17, 2009, the August Wilson Center for African American Culture opened its doors to the public, embarking on a journey filled with amazing arts experiences and cultural milestones. “Throughout the last 15 years, we have celebrated many successes and successfully navigated periods of uncertainty. In 2017, a new cultural organization sparked a renaissance, transforming the August Wilson African American Cultural Center (AWAACC) into one of the largest, multi-disciplinary Black performing arts centers in the country. JANIS BURLEY WILSON, AWAACC PRESIDENT/CEO “We are proud of what we have built upon the foundation that others established. Our mission remains steadfast: to become a premier performing arts center, a home for arts, storytelling, and the exchange of ideas rooted in the African American experience and the African Diaspora. We welcome all to learn, recognize, and uplift the Black experience in artful and impactful ways. “Highlights over the past 15 years include the U.S. premiere of the Flying Girls sculpture by Nigerian artist Peju Alatise, the Black Bottom Film Festival, the virtual salon series Lit Fridays and the culinary series, A Seat at Our Table. “Now, it is time to celebrate once more as we look forward to the...