The Greater Fayetteville Business Journal is excited to welcome the business community to our third Power Breakfast of 2024. Everyone is invited to join us at the Ralph and Linda Huff Orangery at Cape Fear Botanical Garden on Sept. 24 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Titled “Creative Impact,” this Power Breakfast will highlight some of the prominent arts organizations in our area and what our community can do so the arts have an even greater impact on our lives and local economy.

“People need art; we wear it, we eat it, we get married in it, we listen to it on repeat. I can’t wait to help shine a spotlight on these organizations. I’ve had a chance to meet up with our panelists to learn more about them and some of the unique offerings. In our discussions, we’ve been able to brainstorm some talking points to pique the interest of the business community in Fayetteville,” shared Greater Fayetteville Business Journal Editor Faith Hatton. 

Hatton will serve as moderator for the upcoming Power Breakfast.

“This is my first time moderating our Power Breakfast event and I plan on making it a little more conversational. Instead of being at a podium, I’ll be sitting with the panelists on the stage. My goal is be with them at their level and have a moderated conversation about the importance of the arts in this community, instead of following the stricter question by question interview structure,” explained Hatton.

TAKING THE STAGE FOR THIS EVENT ARE FOUR PROMINENT PLAYERS IN THE LOCAL ARTS COMMUNITY:

MARY CATHERINE BURKE - Artistic Director Cape Fear Regional Theatre

Burke joined Cape Fear Regional Theatre with nearly 20 years of experience as a Director, Dramaturge, Assistant Director and Artistic Director. During her seven-year tenure as Artistic Director at CFRT the organization's budget has grown from $1.3 million annually to over $2 million annually and increased the number of people served from 43,000 to over 60,000. She is passionate about theatres reflecting the community they serve. 

CHRISTOPHER B. HOFFMAN CEO - Cape Fear Botanical Garden

Hoffman is the chief executive officer of Cape Fear Botanical Garden. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture from Texas Tech University. Hoffman’s work prioritizes connecting people with nature, and each other, through memorable experiences, meaningful engagement and environmental education.

ANNA MEYER - Executive Director Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra

Meyer is the Executive Director of the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. Prior to her appointment as Executive Director, Meyer served as the symphony’s Community Engagement Manager. Meyer is a graduate of the University of Minnesota where she studied theatre arts and leadership. She spent several years working as a stage manager in Minneapolis, MN before transitioning into the arts administration field. Meyer is passionate about supporting artists in creating for their communities, and enjoys working with artists, patrons and sponsors.

ROBERT C. PINSON - President/CEO The Arts Council of Fayetteville

Pinson serves as President of the Arts Council of Fayetteville and Cumberland County. In his role, Pinson focuses on taking care of the staff and their families and on the mission of the organization to embrace diversity, promote individual creativity, advance economic development and foster lifelong learning through the arts. 

Tickets are on sale now at fayettevillepowerbreakfast.com. Join us as we get to know these arts leaders and reflect on the impact the arts have on our quality of life and business lives.