Stewart retires as chief exec of arts district
COO Pamela Griffin to take the helm
The Murphy Arts District (MAD) announced the retirement of Chairman and CEO Terry Stewart Wednesday.
A foundational part of the development and opening team of MAD, Stewart served in the role of chairman and chief executive officer from 2014 to present. He will remain on as Chairman through the end of 2020.
“Terry’s work at MAD has left an indelible mark on El Dorado,” said Madison Murphy, chairman of Murphy USA. “To have such a legendary music industry executive lead our team has been fundamental in ensuring both our past and future successes.”
“Terry’s dedication to the MAD project – and El Dorado – has been nothing short of inspirational,” Murphy continued. “We’re thrilled he will be staying on through the end of the year as Chairman to facilitate a smooth transition as well as continuing to serve on the Board of Directors. Terry’s leadership and friendship have been and continue to be invaluable.”
Before joining MAD, Stewart spent 14 years as CEO of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and seven years as President and Vice Chair of Marvel Entertainment. Nationally, he still serves on the boards of the Austin City Limits television show; TJ Martell, a cancer research group supported heavily by the music industry; and Summerstage, the free concerts in Central Park in New York City.
“I’ve chased every career you can think of,” said Stewart. “But music was always my biggest driver. It has been my absolute honor to bring live music and other cultural entertainment opportunities to El Dorado. Moreover, this is the most important and transformative position in my long career.”
During his time at MAD, Stewart oversaw the district’s launch, including the iconic kick-off concert with Brad Paisley in 2017. Since then, the venues within MAD have hosted artists at every stage of their careers, from Migos to Hank Williams, Jr.
Stewart was also instrumental in bringing Chicago-based artist Claire Helen Ashley’s AstroZone exhibition to El Dorado. The site-specific immersive installation was a cooperative exhibition with Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The El Dorado project was the first of its kind for Crystal Bridges.
MAD has rescheduled many of its events since the pandemic hit in March, but Stewart said he knows his team will continue to innovate and grow the district.
“We’ve assembled a top-notch staff at MAD that is dedicated to the community and making MAD the center-point for culinary arts and entertainment,” said Stewart. “Once it’s safe, I know I speak for everyone when I say the team can’t wait to see you on the lawn of the MAD Amphitheater, or a table in the Griffin, or rocking out to your favorite band in the Music Hall.”
Current MAD President and Chief Operations Officer Pamela Griffin will succeed Stewart as CEO effective immediately.
An Arkansas native and active part of our local community, Pam serves on boards for the El Dorado-Union County Chamber of Commerce, Main Street El Dorado, the South Arkansas Arts Center and Turning Point.
“Pam has held roles as CFO (Chief Financial Officer), COO and now CEO of MAD,” said Murphy. “She’s a natural leader and knows this business better than anyone. We are confident she will build on Terry’s legacy while solidifying her own.”
This is a developing story; see Friday’s edition of the NewsTimes for more details.