Educators in the public and private sectors discuss preparing the next generation of leaders
(West Palm Beach, Fla.) – The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts held the final installment of its Corporate Partners Business Speaker Series on Monday, March 9. More than 100 members, donors and guests attended the event to hear from institutional experts about The Future of Education and Preparing the Next Generation of Leaders.
Panelists for the luncheon included Michael J. Burke, Superintendent of Palm Beach County School District; Dr. Joel Herbst, Superintendent of Schools for Florida Atlantic Laboratory Schools; Dr. Denise Spirou, Head of School for The Greene School; and Sari Weltmann, Junior High Principal and Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction at American Heritage Schools. The panel was moderated by Ava Parker, J.D., President of Palm Beach State College and a Kravis Center Board member.
Corporate Partners Business Speaker Series Chair and long-time Kravis Center supporter Susan Stautberg welcomed guests and thanked the attending members and donors for their generous support before introducing the speakers.
During the discussion, panelists emphasized that supporting and empowering teachers is key to student success. They highlighted strategies to boost academic outcomes, address disparities, prioritize math and science, integrate emerging technologies like AI, and connect students with real-world industries to ensure graduates leave school with both strong academic and workforce-ready skills.
“Many thanks to our panelists for sharing such thoughtful perspectives on the future of education,” said Diane Quinn, Kravis Center CEO. “Preparing the next generation requires a multifaceted approach — one that supports and empowers educators, embraces innovation and flexibility, and ensures every student can succeed. I also believe STEM is powered by STEAM, and the Kravis Center is proud to have welcomed nearly 3.2 million students to our campus, providing meaningful arts experiences that foster creativity, collaboration and problem-solving. We are grateful for everyone’s support, which makes both arts education and student access possible.”
Kravis Center Corporate Partners are the corporate and professional leaders in Palm Beach County whose mission is to support and enable the Kravis Center to continue its extensive educational and community outreach programs. Corporate Partners membership offers this dynamic group of business leaders the opportunity to act as an integral part of the Kravis Center, building awareness of the Center within the business community. The Corporate Partners Business Speaker Series brings in speakers on a wide array of business topics. In addition, members are invited to special events as well as having priority ticketing for performances.
The Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization and one of South Florida’s premier cultural destinations, located in downtown West Palm Beach. Since 1992, the Kravis Center has presented the finest in live entertainment, showcasing internationally acclaimed artists in music, comedy, dance, Broadway, and more. As part of its nonprofit mission, the Kravis Center has welcomed millions of students to its comprehensive arts education programs. Students of all ages can participate in workshops, classes, and special events, as well as access free and reduced-price tickets for those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience live performances. For more information, please visit kravis.org
To inquire about the Kravis Center’s Corporate Partners membership, visit kravis.org/corporate or call Ali Rehm at 561.651.4297.
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PRESS CONTACT:
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Heather Abbruzze
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