Since 1987, the ABC Institute has worked to ensure equitable access to arts education for South Carolina’s learners. With an expansion during the 2021-22 school year, ABC has focused efforts to cultivate the next generation of change makers in communities to advance arts education, through the strategic investment of funds into ABC schools throughout the state.

“We, at Creative Generation, believe in the power of the arts to change the lives of young people and reform schools to become powerful hubs for learning,” said Jeff M. Poulin, managing director of Creative Generation. “We also know that arts education change makers need support, a network, and the types of continuous education the School for ABC Leaders will provide.”

Creative Generation was founded in April 2019 as a research initiative and has grown its work throughout the United States and around the world. Through pioneering research in the arts and cultural education field – and the relentless support of arts and cultural educators in their work to cultivate the creative capabilities of young people – the organization regularly builds unique learning communities to advance the professional learning of arts education leaders.

“This collaboration is an exciting new chapter in ABC Institute’s legacy story,” said Kim Wilson, director of the ABC Institute. “From our inception 35 years ago, the partnership leaders of ABC Institute have invested in ABC Schools leaders who make exceptional commitments to provide arts-rich learning environments and serve as models to others. Continuous investment in these leaders is not only crucial to our mission but also to the national dialogue.”

About Creative Generation

Contributing to the development of thriving communities and a more just world, Creative Generation works to inspire, connect, and amplify the work of young creatives who catalyze social transformation and those who are committed to cultivating their creative capabilities. Founded in 2019, Creative Generation operates four signature programs: The Campaign for a Creative Generation, the Institute for Creative Social Transformation, The Academy for Creative Leadership, and an Incubator for Creative Impact.

About The ABC Institute

The Arts in Basic Curriculum (ABC) Institute provides leadership to achieve quality, comprehensive arts education (dance, music, media arts, theatre, visual arts and creative writing) for all students in South Carolina. The ABC Institute is cooperatively directed by the South Carolina Arts Commission, the South Carolina Department of Education and the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Winthrop University.