Arts and Humanities

A study by Americans for the Arts - "Arts & Economic Prosperity 5" - provides evidence that the nonprofit arts and culture sector is a significant industry in the State of Oklahoma - one that generates $872.8 million in total economic activity. This spending - $331.2 million by nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and an additional $541.6 million in event-related spending by their audiences - supports 29,165 full-time equivalent jobs, generates $588.2 million in household income to local residents, and delivers $84.5 million in local and state government revenue.

This economic impact study sends a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in the State of Oklahoma’s economic well-being. Read the full report here.

Learn more about how the arts support our local communities and state through Oklahoma Arts Council and 
Oklahomans for the Arts.

Our office serves to support various City of Lawton trusts, boards, and committees that foster the arts and humanities.

McMahon Auditorium Authority is a public trust dedicated to further the vision of Mrs. Louise D. McMahon to advocate the advancement of the arts and other educational and cultural endeavors through the use of the McMahon Memorial Auditorium. Visit swokarts.com for more information about events and information about the auditorium.

• International Festival Committee oversees the planning of Lawton’s annual International Festival, a free, three-day, event to promote greater awareness and appreciation of Lawton’s diverse heritage.   This family-oriented extravaganza is full of fun, food, children’s games and activities, demonstration artists, retailers, concerts, and multicultural experiences that make the Lawton Fort Sill Community so unique. Visit swokarts.com for more information about this year’s festival.
   
• Lawton Arts & Humanities Committee exists to encourage and coordinate cultural endeavors and activities, to provide understanding, knowledge, enjoyment, and practice of the arts and humanities, to advance the development of our citizens and contribute to the general welfare of the City and the area, and to encourage and stimulate all forms of artistic, literary, and other endeavors in the humanities.

Lawton Enhancement Trust Authority (LETA) is a public trust that exists to beautify and esthetically enhance the appearance of the City of Lawton. LETA’s purposes include serving as a fair and impartial representative body responsible for administration, management, and expenditure of the public and private funds entrusted to it; and encouraging and stimulating interest among and endeavors by public and private entities, groups, and individuals who share the vision of a more beautiful City of Lawton.

• Lawton - Ft. Sill Freedom Festival Committeeoversees the planning of Lawton’s celebration of America’s Independence Day. 
   
• Lawton Beautiful Awards Gala Committee
   
• Cultural Preservation Committee 

Jason Poudrier, Arts & Humanities Administrator

Andrea Morman, Deputy Arts & Humanities Administrator

Gary Reddin, Arts Coordinator

Tereasa Neeley, Administrative Assistant

Broderick Jackson II, Maintenance Technician

Stavis Morman, House Manager

Manuel Smith Jr., Maintenance Technician (part time)