Recommendations

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In the years that I have known Alan, I have learned more about running arts organizations, particularly if not exclusively not-for-profit arts organizations, than most people learn in a two- or three-year MA arts administration program -- and as I’ve taught in one such program, I can actually compare his skills to curricula and confirm that Alan is, indeed, a master class in his field.   

Alan’s very popular contributions to The Clyde Fitch Report (a website that committed acts of journalism at the crossroads of arts and politics from 2012 to 2019, now on hiatus) were a joy to edit and one of the CFR's secret weapons. His persuasive writing skills, often rooted in the superlative use of inductive logic, are one more testimonial beyond the million other reasons why you should offer him a leadership position at your organization not tomorrow, not someday, but today. Alan has my highest endorsement -- and gratitude for all the guidance and mentorship through the years. 

Alan is a visionary who believes that theatre changes lives for the better, and who creates teams who make sure that it does.  He is a delight to work with, and learn from. 

Alan is clear and passionate in his work in the arts. He was fierce, in the best sense of the word, in promoting the mission of ArtsWest.  He has an uncommon clarity of purpose and focus. I admire his decisiveness and ability to identify the priorities needed to achieve a goal – and make it happen! I do not believe that any detail eludes Alan. His decisions are meticulously thought out and his word is trustworthy. I enjoy his sense of humor and view of the world and welcome every opportunity to learn from his experience. 

Alan is a gifted writer who is able to, with humor and compassion, identify, articulate, and offer solutions to some of the challenges in the non profit and arts sectors. As well as the inequities he sees as a citizen of the world.  I have very much enjoyed his essays and posts these past few months and always look forward to reading his perspectives. 

Alan is a thought leader in the areas of marketing and branding.  He understands how important it is that arts organizations engage in forging strategic alliances that yield greater efficiencies and cooperation. 

 Alan is one of the brightest and most passionate marketing minds 

with whom I have worked 

in 31 years of servicing 

arts organizations. 

It's easy to recommend Alan because he is simply a straightforward honest and great businessman with the heart and passion of an artist. 

As a review of Alan's work with ArtsWest we can say that beyond question he's a remarkable man. His intelligence, wit, and professional persona reflect what is going on in and around him. In his tenure with ArtsWest it became an organization transformed from a neighborhood playhouse to a regional force in theater. 

 Alan has a rare combination of talents -- he understands the arts as well as he understands the business of arts organizations.  He is an expert non-profit manager and a natural marketer. 

Steady hand at the wheel.  Caring, interested and invested leader.  Trustworthy and endlessly positive. His enthusiasm and great personality are contagious! Would certainly be on his team again!

Alan promoted ArtsWest vision of a production company sharing compelling art both on stage and in its gallery.  He had great success in securing large government and foundation gifts.  He created new marketing ideas such as $10 tickets for those under 25 that increased attendance and planted lifelong theater appreciation for a younger crowd.  He promoted ArtsWest as a community oriented theater with the guts to take risks for fantastic theater. 

Alan Harrison demonstrates an ability to successfully tackle challenging, cross-functional responsibilities. Above all, I was impressed with Alan’s ability to be strategic as well as execute, moving the patron department significantly forward during a period of organizational change. His expertise as an Arts leader, fundraiser and marketing expert makes Alan an excellent asset. Alan is an experienced arts leader and comes with my strong recommendation.