2021 Oklahoma Arts Conference

Embracing the Dawn

Mark Wilkerson
Mark Wilkerson obtained his degree in Horticulture and Landscape Architecture from Oklahoma State University, became a state Certified Landscape Architect, and in 1996 became a Certified Park and Recreation Professional. He began his career with the City of Muskogee in 1988 as Director of Parks and Recreation. Wilkerson served the Oklahoma Recreation and Parks Society as past president and has served as chair of the Oklahoma Urban and Community Forestry Council. He is a graduate of Leadership Muskogee Class I, Leadership Oklahoma Class IX, and Oklahoma Kids Count Leader Class VIII. Under Wilkerson’s leadership, the Muskogee Parks and Recreation Department has earned numerous state and national recognitions.

Mark Wilkerson's Schedule

On Track for Success: The Story of Muskogee's Depot District Development
Date: Thursday – October, 28 2021 Time: 1:30pm - 2:45pm Room: Theatre
The Muskogee Depot District and the Depot Green, which serves as an outdoor oasis in the middle of the historic district, are places for people of all backgrounds to enjoy. With increased community ownership and economic growth as goals in the development of the district, the vision for the area required collaboration of several stakeholders, and was prompted through funding from the Oklahoma Arts Council’s Cultural District Development Program. Grants from the program supported the creation of a brand for the district and helped stakeholders secure funding and additional relationships to bring the project to completion. In this session, attendees will hear about the ideation and implementation, including successes and challenges, of one of downtown Muskogee’s newest cultural assets and activity hubs.

Muskogee's New Festivals and Cultural Celebrations
Date: Friday – October, 29 2021 Time: 10:45am - 11:45am Room: Theatre
The Localmotion Festival and Muskogee Oklahoma Native American Association's Indigenous People Celebration have created unique opportunities for the community to celebrate the history, art, and culture of Muskogee. Event coordinators will discuss steps taken in creating the events, from the initial concepts to implementation, and will highlight lessons learned along the way. Hear how organizers leveraged local partnerships and creativity to provide safe, meaningful, and fun celebrations for people of all ages. If you are considering starting or creating a new festival or community cultural celebration, this session is for you!

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Questions?
For more information contact our Director of Rural and Creative Community Outreach.