BALTIMORE, MD. (Tuesday, January 10, 2023) - Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott released the following statement in response to the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts' Board of Directors decision to not immediately remove Donna Drew Sawyer as CEO of the organization.

"Given the recent turmoil and disruption within the Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts (BOPA), leading to instability within the arts and culture community, my unwavering support for preserving Baltimore's vibrant cultural heritage and ensuring the success of important events such as the MLK Day Parade remains unchanged. Despite my disappointment in the Board's decision to not immediately remove Donna Drew Sawyer as CEO of the organization, I am firmly committed to ensuring the continuation of high-quality, inclusive arts and culture programming in our city. To that end, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Tonya Miller Hall, currently the Chief Marketing and Programs Officer of BOPA, as the Senior Advisor for Arts & Cultural Affairs in the Mayor's Office, effective immediately. In this role, Tonya will work closely on behalf of the Mayor and City of Baltimore, with our cultural and artistic leaders to develop a fresh perspective and strategy for revitalizing our communities and harnessing Baltimore's rich artistic talent and cultural assets to enhance the quality of life for all residents."

Mayor Brandon M. Scott