Community Highlights: Meet Rick of Arizona State University

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rick.

Hi Rick, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hance Park Conservancy (HPC) was founded as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2010 to promote and advocate for the redevelopment of Margaret T. Hance Park in Downtown Phoenix. Its Board of Trustees is comprised of community, city, and business leaders committed to the mission to activate and promote the creative use of this regional public space in support of a vibrant arts and cultural experience. HPC has been instrumental in developing the Hance Park Master Plan, and supports the fundraising effort of the Hance Park Partner Coalition to fund the implementation of the plan and foster collaborations in support of sustainability, community programming and advancement of the park.

“Our mission is to activate and unite our community by promoting the creative use of public space and a vibrant arts and cultural experience.”

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There has been a tremendous outpouring of community support for Hance Park and the Conservancy’s mission. We have evolved from a start-up, all-volunteer organization, to a more sustainable nonprofit, which takes tremendous work. Our success in luring more and larger events to the park has at times stressed the park itself and the parking resources near the park. We have worked to overcome any significant impacts that large-scale events have had on surrounding community attractions. We are continuing to grow our organization and its impact to benefit the community.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am Associate Vice President in Enterprise Planning for Arizona State University. This means working on new buildings, campuses, and programs that benefit the community. I serve as volunteer President for the Hance Park Conservancy. Hance Park is an incredibly important asset for the region, and especially for the downtown community, where ASU has a growing presence.

Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
The book, the “Happiness Advantage,” by Shawn Achor. Its premise is that happiness isn’t a result of success, but rather a catalyst for it. The book posits that cultivating a positive mindset can boost productivity, creativity, and resilience.

The other resource I find invaluable is Spotify and other music streaming services. I have always listened to and played/sang music as a builder of energy and creativity in my life. Having so much music at my fingertips has allowed me to be inspired by so much talent and creativity that would otherwise be hard to experience.

Pricing:

• See our Website for Noche en Blanco Prices

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hanceparkphx.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hanceparkphx @hanceparkphx
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HancePark/

Image Credits
Credit: Hance Park Conservancy