The Center for Black Excellence and Culture (The Center) has announced it has just $3 million left to raise to break ground debt-free in spring 2024. The three-level facility will be a first-of-its-kind cultural and community landmark. The milestone follows gifts from across the region, including donations from businesses and individuals.
The Center is launching a new $450,000 match campaign running through Dec. 31, jointly sponsored by $200,000 from Exact Sciences and Sheila and Kevin Conroy, and $250,000 from Mary Burke — half of her total gift. Every dollar donated between now and the end of the year will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $450,000.
The Center has already launched initial programming. In July, The Center partnered with the Children’s Theater of Madison to host The Wiz Experience, including three performing arts workshops for Black youth led by Dana Pellebon, who will serve as the director of theatrical programming at The Center. Additionally, The Center will host a Black Artists Expo on Dec. 2 to promote Black creative expression within visual arts. The Center’s director of visual arts, Annik Dupaty, is leading this event.
Early programming focus areas include Black culture, history, innovation and leadership development, mental wellness, arts, and youth STEAM engagement. Following the groundbreaking, The Center will raise an additional $2–3 million for program development and operational reserves.
The Center received the following gifts from businesses and individuals, as well as anonymous givers:
- $500,000 from Mary Burke;
- $100,000–$249,000 from Exact Sciences, Delta Dental of Wisconsin, Kevin and Sheila Conroy, and Mary Ellyn and Joe Sensenbrenner; and
- $25,000–$99,000 from U.S. Bank Foundation, Associated Bank Foundation, PRL Keystone Foundation, and Chubb Insurance.
Organizations and individuals can provide a donation to The Center here.
