For the past two decades I have devoted my life to arts education. As a founder of two of the nation’s most respected and renowned high school arts conservatories I have seen, firsthand, the transformation of young people who are given the opportunity to experience an arts education. Even those who have no desire to pursue a career in the arts are changed forever from the experience. The arts grow and nurture creative, committed and compassionate human beings.  The arts bridge communities, races and people from all walks of life and socio-economic boundaries. The arts are the soul of a nation.

Few could argue that the future of our nation is at stake. Though there are a myriad of opinions as to what has led our country into decline, it is our belief that decimating the arts programs in America’s schools is at the core. The arts should be as “core” to a comprehensive education as English, mathematics, history and geography. They are, in fact, intrinsic to each of these subjects. The arts foster creative and innovative thinking, promote the tolerance and understanding of people of differing racial, cultural and socio-economic backgrounds and build confidence and esteem. When we lose the arts, we lose a piece of our humanity.

There are countless studies that demonstrate how an arts education significantly impacts, for the good, the overall academic success of our children. Moreover, an arts education nurtures a positive human spirit. Every child should have the opportunity to pick up a paint brush, sing in a chorus, perform in a play, hold a musical instrument in their hands, dance … no child should be denied the chance to find and express their personal creativity. The arts, unlike any other academic subject, are a place where every child can succeed and there are no wrong answers. The arts celebrate individuality, innovation and thinking outside of the box.

The American Foundation For Arts Education is not just advocating for the arts for our children, it is a catalyst for change. There are many exciting things on the horizon and you this website will introduce you to all of these fantastic projects, and how you can help, in the months to come. To quote our founder, Harry Kullijian – “we are not trying to save the arts, we are using the arts to save our children”.

David Green
President/Executive Director

Welcome to the new website for the American Foundation for Arts Education, formerly the Dr. Carol Channing and Harry Kullijian Foundation For The Arts.

Check back soon for more updates to the new site!

Stephanie J. Block
Carole Cook
Arlene Dahl
Tyne Daly
Rhonda Fleming
Tippi Hedren
Florence Henderson
Jerry Herman
Jayne Meadows-Allen
Carl Reiner
Lily Tomlin
Barbara Walters
Esther Williams
JoAnne Worley