After five years as director of the Office of the Arts, Madison Cario is leaving Georgia Tech to become the new executive director of the Regional Arts & Culture Council in Portland, Oregon. Cario, seen nationally as an innovator and arts leader, brought passionate energy to the arts on campus, reinvigorating the vision of what the arts can be at Georgia Tech, and reimagining the arts to fit the current culture and community.  Cario’s focus on the intersection of art and technology was innovative on a college campus and ignited a creative wave that continues to move across campus.

Cario attributes their success to relationship building and campus partnerships. “I am so very proud of the work that we have all accomplished together, and feel assured that the vision and programs that we have built together will continue. We have refocused our energy to create space and opportunities for artists, creatives, researchers, technologists, and makers to work at the intersection of science, engineering, art, design, and technology while also embedding creative practice into the lives and learning of the students, faculty, and staff at Georgia Tech.”

During Cario's tenure, the Office of the Arts implemented a new program of student engagement, managed the renovation of the Ferst Center lobbies and theater, and coordinated the installation of several new works of public art on campus.  The Arts@Tech professional artist series which begins in January will be unique in its presentation of performances selected specifically for both their artistry and implementation of new technologies. 

“While I will miss the work and this amazing community at Georgia Tech, I am honored to serve the field in my new role where I will continue to find ways to strengthen, grown and sustain a brilliantly diverse and innovative arts and culture community.

Cario will remain at Georgia Tech through the end of the Fall semester. Plans have already begun to conduct a national search for the next director, following Cario's departure.