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    A Walters State faculty member will have a voice in state-wide arts programming.

    Laura Ritter, assistant dean for humanities and head of the choral department, is serving on the Tennessee Arts Commission’s 2012 Citizen Advisory Panel in Nashville. Panelists offer advice on program planning and review grant applications.

    “I congratulate Laura on being named to this panel and commend the Tennessee Arts Commission for such a wise choice,” said Dr. Wade McCamey, president of Walters State.

     "She is already well-known as an advocate for the arts in our service area. Her activities extend far beyond Walters State. Here, she has played a big role in developing the next generation of artists and patrons,” McCamey said.

     As part of her two-year term, Ritter will also serve as a year-round resource to the Arts Commission staff and as advocates for the arts in their communities.

     “Our citizen panels consist of dedicated and informed individuals from across the state,” said Rod Reiner, deputy director of the commission. “These individuals provide an invaluable service to the commission and are critical to the grant making process.”

     “The caliber of individuals serving on the panels is impressive and we are so appreciative of their time and effort. Most of the individuals have strong backgrounds in or are active supporters of the arts. They make a tremendous contribution,” Reiner said.

     Panelists must be nominated and then submit a statement of their individual qualifications to serve on the advisory board.

     Under Ritter’s leadership, Walters State’s choral program has been named a Program of Excellence by the Tennessee Board of Regents. Many of her students have also been chosen to join Honors Choirs at national conferences. Ritter is also the artistic director of the Lakeway Children’s Choir and a member of Encore Theatrical Company. She serves as musical director for many area productions and is a member of Encore Theatrical Company.