Liz Matthews has served in a volunteer capacity at PRISMA since its early days, overseeing guest artist housing and travel in her role as transportation, lodging and housing coordinator.

“An enthusiast, a volunteer, and someone who cared about those who came to participate from the very start,” remarked PRISMA president Mike Robinson.

Michael Matthews served as president of the PRISMA board from 2015 to 2018, bringing a focus on planning, a business-like protocol, and international intellectual scope. He also assisted in promoting a permanent staff amidst the shift from a working board to a governance board. He concluded his tenure on the board at the 2022 AGM.

“He oversaw that transition and that’s a major achievement for any board to undertake and it requires careful guardianship and hard, hard work to make it work,” said Robinson.

Matthews took the stage briefly to reflect on his tenure with PRISMA, calling it an honour and privilege.

“I think it really is an incredible organization that gives so much to the community and so much to the individuals involved – students, audience, organizers, volunteers,” he said.

Adds PRISMA artistic director, Arthur Arnold, “PRISMA would not exist without its volunteers, whether it’s at the board level or in any other capacity. Community engagement brings joy to many, not just to those directly involved. It’s the ripple effect that spreads the joy wide and far. And we need it more than ever.”

Photos by Arlan Smallwood – PRISMA Operations Manager