Letter from the Executive Director

My First Year

Reflecting on making connections, sharing stories and strengthening communities.

In May I marked my first year as executive director of Florida Humanities, and as I reflect on my time here, I marvel at the vast impact of this organization. Florida—and the country— continued to navigate life during a pandemic, and some of the cultural institutions of this state faced dire challenges. Florida Humanities strategically directed nearly $2 million in federal relief funding to small to midsize nonprofits across the state, saving more than 400 jobs. The 129 recipients of this relief effort serve an audience of 6.5 million people.

Through our competitive funding opportunities, Community Project Grants and Greater Good: Humanities in Academia Grants, we supported programs on topics ranging from the WPA and the legacy of President Franklin Roosevelt to Florida cattle ranching. Spanning subjects from 16th century Spanish Florida to environmental justice and civic engagement, our diverse programming reflected the rich and dynamic identity of the Floridian.

Democracy Reignited, our civic engagement initiative, flourished with our partner, The Village Square. We placed on center stage questions about our role and responsibilities as citizens of our state and country. Scholar, author and journalist Jonathan Rauch challenged us to be aware of how and where we receive our truth in this age of high-traffic digital information. I participated in two events in the series that examined the nature of truth, perspective and relativism. With ethicist Danielle Allen and political realist Theodore R. Johnson, we

discussed the promise and challenges of the American social contract and the constitution’s power to ensure delivery of citizens’ expectations rather than simply frame an existing reality. I was fortunate to break bread and forge connections with two of my predecessors, Steve Siebert and Janine Farver. They provided great counsel and perspective on the good work of Florida Humanities over the past few decades and the opportunities that lie ahead as we approach our Perhaps most important 50th anniversary season next year. in an age of troubling From veterans to children, Florida Humanities has been able to share disinformation, I’ve captivating stories of our fellow realized that Florida Floridians, consider what it means to contribute to a more perfect union

Humanities is an and provide a lens to better see and implement for the understand Florida. Perhaps most important in an age of troubling delivery of truth. disinformation, I’ve realized that Florida Humanities is an implement for the delivery of truth. Our work deepens the understanding of our humanity, and with our partners and incredibly talented staff, we will continue to unearth the stories of Florida that inspire, move and resonate.

Nashid Madyun