The Holmberg Arts Leadership Institute is designed for residents of the greater Chattanooga area who share a passion for advancing and engaging with the arts in our community.

Launched in 2005 in memory of long-time board member and arts advocate A. William Holmberg, Jr., the annual Institute offers behind-the-scenes site visits to cultural and educational institutions, case studies of arts agencies, panel discussions with community leaders about current issues facing the arts community, and a unique forum for pursuing shared goals among arts leaders, business leaders, educators, and philanthropic foundations.

The Holmberg Institute provides many opportunities for networking and strengthens individual talents and skills needed to serve as volunteers, board members and fund raisers.

The annual Ruth Holmberg Arts Leadership Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in Chattanooga and who are actively engaged in the cultural life of our community—“Arts Builders” who exemplify ArtsBuild’s mission to build a stronger community through the arts as demonstrated by their significant contributions to the arts and their leadership.

The first Arts Leadership Award in 2014 recognized Ruth Holmberg for her extraordinary support of the arts and cultural community in Chattanooga over 70 years. Since 2014, the annual award has honored Mrs. Holmberg with her name.