Friends of the Arts

"The Friends of the Arts are a tremendous help to students and faculty in their ability to accomplish goals they otherwise would not be able to do". - College of Fine Arts and Communication Dean Russ Schultz

The Friends of the Arts was founded in 1973 under the leadership of then-Dean Brock Brentlinger to bring awareness to and raise funds for scholarships and educational enhancements within the College of Fine Arts and Communication at Lamar University. Through this support, students have access to visiting artists and scholars and gain hands-on clinical experience. In addition, faculty members are afforded the ability to enrich their careers through academic and artistic workshops and research.

The Friends' major fundraiser, Le Grand Bal, made its premiere in 1975. The elegant extravaganza celebrates artistic themes such as "Roman Holiday" (1982); "New York, New York" (1989); "A Night at the Oscars" (1994); "The French Connection" (1998); "2001: An Art Odyssey" (2001); and "Passport to the Arts" (2005). Past event honorees have included Lamar University President Jimmy Simmons, Jerry Reese, Vic Rogers, Nell McCallum Morris, Judy and George Dishman and Frank Messina.

To learn more about becoming a member of Friends of the Arts, or for information about participating in Le Grand Bal, please contact the Lamar University College of Fine Arts and Communication at (409) 880-8137.