Statement By The Director of Cultural Affairs On The Passing of Commissioner Sylvia Hougland

It is with a very heavy heart that I write to let you know that Commissioner Sylvia Hougland has passed away.

Appointed by Councilwoman Sandy Greyson, Sylvia served on the CAC for more than 5 years, most recently as our Vice-Chairwoman. Sylvia loved serving on the Public Art Committee and was instrumental in our dialogue with the arts community on issues of cultural equity.

In addition to her dedicated service on the CAC, Sylvia was a long-standing board member with the Friends of the Bath House Cultural Center and helped steer that group through several challenging years. She was a devoted patron and supporter of many, many arts organizations including TITAS, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, the Nasher, and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

For me personally, Sylvia was a thoughtful and empathetic listener and thinker who brought years of experience and leadership in public service, not to mention a wry and hilarious sense of humor, to each of our interactions.

Services for Sylvia will be held this Saturday, July 1, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Nasher Sculpture Center. The family suggests wearing red lipstick – in her honor.

Jennifer Scripps