Founded in 1989 and consisting of community leaders, the Chipola Regional Arts Association (CRAA) develops the appreciation and enjoyment of all the cultural arts and supports the arts at Chipola College and the five county district it serves. It's objective is to sponsor theatrical productions, musical concerts, exhibits, lectures, scholarships and to promote any programming that may future its mission.
Our Membership
- Formed in 1989, the CRAA membership consists of those persons who give their time, talents and financial contributions to the arts.
- The Chipola College Foundation is the custodian of CRAA finances.
- Membership in CRAA is free.
- If you are interested in joining CRAA or in being added to the membership email list, contact Dr. Christine Yoshikawa at yoshikawac@chipola.edu.
All meetings are open to the public and include guest speakers in the arts. Dutch luncheon meetings held at Jim’s Buffet & Grill in Marianna on the third Tuesday of each month, except for December, June, July and August. The luncheon begins at 11:30 with the program beginning at noon.
Artist Series
The Chipola Regional Artists Association is a supporter of the annual Artist Series at Chipola College. The Association has donated more than $155,000 since its inception to support the public series, which hosts professional touring performers on campus annually.
CRAA Rotating Scholarship
More than $50,000 in scholarships have been awarded to deserving Chipola College Fine and Performing Arts students from Chipola's five-county service area.
Mini Grants for K-12 Teachers
Since 2000, CRAA has awarded mini grants totaling over $64,850 to deserving K-12 teachers who need supplemental support to their art, music, and theatre programs.
Support the CRAA: Partners in the Arts
The Chipola Regional Arts Association provides critical support for cultural activities in the Chipola five-county area. This difference is a direct result of the loyal and generous financial support of our Partners in the Arts.
Give a tax deductible gift to the Chipola Regional Arts Association:
- Benefactor: $1,000 & up
- Patron: $500 - $999
- Sponsor: $250 - $499
- Contributor: $100 to $249
- Supporter: $25 - $99
For more information or to contribute, contact the Fine and Performing Arts Office at 850-718-2277.
Endowment Fund
In 2004, the CRAA established an endowment fund that is building a financial resource to help fund vital programs of the Fine and Performing Arts Department for the future of Chipola College. To date, more than $120,000 has been given. If you would like to donate to this cause and secure future funding for the arts at Chipola College, contact the Fine and Performing Arts Department at 850-718-2277.
Executive Board
President:Joan Stadsklev
Vice President: Dr. Jerry Kandzer
Secretary: Muriel Turner
Treasurer: Jo-Ann Anderson
Programs: Dr. Jerry Kandzer and George Sweeney
Promotional: Polly Roberts
Membership: Christine Yoshikawa
Historian: Trudie Cooley
Calhoun/Liberty County Representative: Hope Peacock
Holmes County Representative: Shirley Owens
Washington County Representative: Kristi Hinson
Member at Large: Roy Turner
Member at Large: Jesse Smallwood
Mini Grant Chairmen: Macky Gortemoller and Mary Hinson
Executive Director: Evelyn Ward