Explorers Circle Brings Patrons Together with National Geographic Explorers
Time to Read: 3 minutes
There is currently nowhere else in the world where National Geographic Live is presented that has a comparable program.
Ken Havard believes that a well-rounded community includes the arts. “I think Arts Commons is very under-appreciated by the general community. I don’t think a lot of people realize what it provides. There are many that would say that giving money to the arts is ridiculous and that we should really focus on [saving money and] reducing our taxes instead. I don’t necessarily agree with that.
To be an all rounded community, you need things like Arts Commons. Without them, it’s a pretty harsh and dull place, really.” ~ Ken Havard
Havard became the very first National Geographic Live Engagement Sponsor in the 2012-13 season. His journey began when Arts Commons’ Chief Development Officer, Greg Epton, left a National Geographic Birds of Paradise book on Havard’s doorstep with a note that said, “I know you’re interested in birds and there is this talk coming up about the birds of paradise. Give me a call!” Havard is an avid birder with over 6000 birds under his belt and a huge internet database of bird images captured on his Canon telephoto.
Birds of Paradise. Photo by Wildlife Photojournalist Tim Laman
“That was only the second year of Nat Geo and I didn’t even know it was on,” reminisces Havard. “Ever since I joined, I found it’s a great program and everybody loves it. And I love to be able to sponsor one of the talks every year, meet new people, and invite friends to come for dinner with the Explorers. It’s been a really nice experience.”
The truth is that it is a one-of-a-kind experience. There is currently nowhere else in the world where National Geographic Live is presented that has a comparable program.
“For 10 years, Arts Commons has enthusiastically welcomed National Geographic explorers and photographers to share their inspiring stories from the field with Calgary audiences. The National Geographic Live series at Arts Commons has experienced continued growth over these years, and The Explorers Circle program is a key part of that success. Ken and Arts Commons have become a great model of success for the venues that host National Geographic Live, and we look forward to another incredible decade ahead,” said Natali Freeling, Director of Marketing, Global Events & Experiences at National Geographic.
By inviting friends and sharing in his experiences, Havard inspired others to join the Explorers Circle and support the program. Through word-of-mouth and sharing the unique experiences realized through Explorers Circle, the program grew and has grown exponentially since its inception (2500%!).
Havard has had many memorable experiences since he joined the program, including that first year when he met photographer Tim Laman and ornithology scientist Edwin Scholes, who presented Birds of Paradise. But Havard’s interest in science and nature goes well beyond birds and in fact beyond our planet and our time. “Aside from the Birds of Paradise presentation, which I obviously really enjoyed, I also really loved Kobie Boykins’ presentation of Exploring Mars, and getting to see first-hand the Mars Rover. That was really special. And then there was Lee Berger and the discovery of Homo naledi. I mean, that is one of the most important discoveries of our time.” Havard continues to name off Explorers and reminisce about the unforgettable encounters and conversations he had with them about their ground-breaking work.
Havard continues to support Arts Commons and National Geographic at the same Engagement Sponsor level and has since also joined the Founders Circle, which is a similar membership program, but provides behind-the-scenes experiences with artists from the other Arts Commons Presents series, such as BD&P World Stage, Classic Albums Live, PCL Blues, and TD Jazz.
Explorers Circle and Founders Circle memberships start at $100 and donations are tax deductible pursuant to CRA regulations. When you join Arts Commons Explorers Circle, you support Arts Commons public and student matinee presentations of National Geographic Live, and contribute to National Geographic’s work in conservation, exploration, research, and education.
For more information, visit: artscommons.ca/explorerscircle
