Today we’d like to introduce you to Sue Bard.
Hi Sue, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to the arts. Like many people, I dabbled here and there, but eventually found the opportunity to return to college and complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts. During that time, I joined the board of a small museum, where I was fortunate to be mentored by several remarkable individuals. They taught me how to write grants, develop projects, create budgets, and curate exhibitions—skills that would shape the path ahead.
I became involved with several arts organizations, which led to invitations to serve on their boards. One of those was the Southeast Texas Arts Council (SETAC). After serving on SETAC’s board for two years, I was invited to step into the role of executive director when the previous director transitioned out of the arts field. The office was located in downtown Beaumont, and I watched with interest as the city began revitalizing the area—installing brick sidewalks, vintage-style lamp posts, and new landscaping.
Downtown Beaumont is home to a wealth of cultural assets: six museums, two historically designated performing arts centers, a historical library, a large public library, and a civic center that was later joined by the Downtown Event Center, complete with a lake, fountain, skate park, and children’s play area. When I learned about the Cultural District Designation program offered by the Texas Commission on the Arts, I felt strongly that Beaumont already had a cultural district—it just hadn’t been officially recognized. SETAC established the Downtown Beaumont Cultural Arts District (DBCAD) in 2017, and it earned designation from the state in 2019.
I retired from SETAC in December 2023, but I continue to serve as the director of DBCAD, where I remain committed to supporting public art, youth engagement, and meaningful community partnerships.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The path to where I am today wasn’t without its challenges. In 2000, I lost my husband unexpectedly, becoming a widow with three children—ages 17, 13, and 6. Navigating grief while raising a family required strength I didn’t know I had.
Determined to continue growing, I returned to college and earned my BFA in August 2005. Just weeks later, Hurricane Rita struck, flooding my home and upending life once again. Then, in October, I discovered a lump that was diagnosed as breast cancer. I underwent treatment and had a double mastectomy in May 2006.
During that same period, I was asked to run for Silsbee City Council and did so as a write-in candidate. I served for 12 years, gaining firsthand experience in local government and policy-making. That role gave me a deeper appreciation for how public institutions function—and how the arts can intersect with civic priorities to improve quality of life.
Those years tested me in every way imaginable. But they also clarified my purpose. Art, community, and service became not just passions, but lifelines. Each challenge shaped the person I am—more focused and more committed to building something lasting for others.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I work at the intersection of art, community, and civic engagement. As director of the Downtown Beaumont Cultural Arts District (DBCAD), I focus on public art initiatives, youth engagement, and partnerships that bring lasting value to our city. My background includes grant writing, project development, and curating exhibitions—skills I’ve honed through years of service with museums, arts organizations, and local government.
I’m most proud of helping establish DBCAD and securing its designation from the Texas Commission on the Arts. That recognition affirmed what many of us already knew: downtown Beaumont is a vibrant cultural hub. I’m also proud of the relationships built along the way—with artists, educators, scientists, and city leaders—each one contributing to a shared vision for our community.
As for what sets me apart, I’d rather let others decide. What I can say is that I approach my work with patience, a desire to collaborate, and a deep respect for the people I serve. I believe in listening closely, planning carefully, and always keeping the long-term good in mind.
How do you think about luck?
I don’t really believe in luck—good or bad. I believe in physics, in God, and in the reality that ego often drives people to make poor decisions. I try to keep mine in check and stay focused on what benefits the most people. Challenges have come, and so have opportunities, but I’ve found that what matters most is how we respond: with patience, purpose, and a willingness to serve.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.downtownbeaumont.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbcad409/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/downtownbeaumontculturalartsdistrict/
Image Credits
Images are courtesy of Tim Sudela.
