I always knew that the NAC was special, a place where hearts and minds are transformed through the power of music, dance and theatre. But little did I know when I became head of NAC Communications in 2001 (and then CEO of the Foundation in 2009) what an amazing adventure I was embarking on, and how I would connect with so many people through the love of the performing arts.
As you may have heard, I am stepping down from my role as CEO of the NAC Foundation on May 31, 2023. It was not a simple decision to make, but it’s time for me to enter the next chapter of my life: one filled with scenes of family, friends, travel, and, of course, the performing arts.
One of the best parts of the job of NAC Foundation CEO was meeting wonderful donors like you who share my love of music, dance and theatre. It has been so wonderful to hear your stories of what brought you to the NAC, what performances moved you, and how many of you were passing on your tradition of going to the theatre to your children and grandchildren.
Many of you started coming to the NAC right after it opened, and hearing your memories of special evenings spent at the NAC was always so meaningful to me. Loyal donors like you are the lifeblood of the NAC and, like you, I will always keep the NAC as part of my life and my giving priorities.
So, this is not really a goodbye because we continue to share the same story, a love for Canada’s performing artists and their power to transform us. May that love live on until the very last page. Thank you so much for your support of the NAC Foundation; it has been an honour.
Sincerely,
Jayne Watson
Chief Executive Officer
NAC Foundation
In honour of Jayne’s tremendous impact as a leader, mentor, colleague, and friend, the National Arts Centre Foundation is establishing The Jayne Watson Performing Arts Fellowship. An endowed fund created through a generous gift from Foundation Board Chair Susan Glass, The Jayne Watson Performing Arts Fellowship will support aspiring artists and future arts leaders participating in professional development programs at the National Arts Centre. To learn more, please contact Karen Swain, Director of Philanthropy and Campaign, at Karen.Swain@nac-cna.ca or 343-588-0584.
An extensive search is currently underway for Jayne’s successor. We look forward to announcing the new CEO later this spring.
