Dear Friends,

Looking back over thirty-four years, and ahead to our 35th year, I find myself thinking about the simple question that started Creative Connections: “Why should the opportunity to experience other cultures belong only to a few students?” I wanted to create a simple, accessible way for students to connect around the world through art, and conversations.

My hope was that students would first discover something about themselves, then share their stories and artwork with someone from another culture and discover something equally important: while we may be different, we are also remarkably alike.

Thirty-four years later, I have had the extraordinary privilege of seeing that idea come to life in classrooms around the world, as artwork crosses borders and students meet one another.

The world has changed enormously since Creative Connections began, but the need to understand one another has never been greater.

As we look toward our 35th year, I am excited about the students we have yet to reach and the connections we have yet to make.

I am deeply grateful to all of you, our teachers, students, partners, friends, and donors, who have believed in this idea and helped it grow.

What began with a simple question has become a lifelong journey of connection, and a belief that when students share their stories and listen to one another, they discover how much we all have in common.

With deep appreciation,

Alan Steckler, Founder & President