The Arts & Cultural Council of Decatur County is proud to announce the hiring of John Pratt as
the organization’s new Part-Time Director, beginning Thursday, January 1, 2026. This marks
a meaningful milestone for the Arts & Cultural Council and for the arts and culture community
in Greensburg and Decatur County.
Since 1995, the Arts & Cultural Council has helped shape a more vibrant and connected
community by supporting local artists and creating opportunities for people to experience and
participate in arts and cultural programs over the years. For the last several years, the
organization has relied on the dedication and passion of an entirely volunteer Board. After steady
growth and a renewed commitment to expanding arts opportunities throughout Decatur County,
the Board recognized that the time had come to take a significant next step.
“In order to strengthen our impact, expand our capacity, and continue the momentum
we’ve worked toward for so long, it became clear that hiring a Director was essential,” said
Board President Leah Kane. “We are thrilled to welcome John Pratt into this role. His
deep-rooted love and knowledge of history, culture, and the arts — paired with his
experience, creativity, and drive — make him an incredible fit for this role.”
Pratt brings a lifetime of experience in education, community programming, history, and
leadership. Recent commitments include coordinating a variety of arts and cultural events that
coincided with the Decatur County Bicentennial Celebration, organizing the inaugural Bill Smith
Underground Railroad Festival, and planning a long-standing Chautauqua Series during his
tenure as a history teacher at North Decatur High School and Greensburg Community High
School, where he coordinated more than 200 notable guest speakers — from authors and sports
stars to Holocaust survivors, filmmakers, and many others. He has a long-standing reputation for
bringing people together, elevating stories, and helping arts and culture flourish in meaningful
ways.
The Council also wishes to extend heartfelt appreciation to Lynda Smith, whose generous
financial support made it possible for this position to be expanded beyond the Board’s original
plan. “Lynda’s unwavering dedication to the arts has strengthened this community in
countless ways,” Kane said. “Her support for this role reflects her belief in the Arts
Council’s potential and the value of expanding arts and culture initiatives in our
community — as well as her hope that others will join her in supporting the future of arts
and culture in Decatur County.”
Arts and culture shape the way we experience the places we live and visit. They turn ordinary
streets into landmarks, spark curiosity and innovation, and invite us to experience something
new. They allow us to express our identity, celebrate our history, and imagine our future. When
arts and culture are woven into everyday life, they create meaning, encourage expression, and
help communities feel more alive, more welcoming, and more distinctly their own.
With John Pratt stepping into this new leadership role, the Arts & Cultural Council of Decatur
County enters an exciting new chapter. We look forward to the growth, collaboration, and
creative possibilities ahead — not only for our organization, but for all who call Decatur
County home.
Community members, businesses, local artists, and supporters who wish to connect with the Arts
Council or explore ways to get involved may reach out or contribute in the following ways:
