Thomas Tran Thomas Tran joined the Oklahoma Arts Council in 2016 and currently serves as the agency's Grants Director. He holds a Bachelor of Music from Oklahoma State University, where he studied classical music, and he has a background in public service, education, and program administration. As Grants Director, Tran works closely with organizations across the state as they apply for funding from the Council. He oversees the operations and design of the agency's grants, ensuring they are responsive to the sector and the need to invest in programs benefiting all Oklahomans. Prior to his time at the Council, Thomas worked for the Pioneer Library System and Stillwater Arts Outreach. Thomas has served on numerous boards in Oklahoma and nationally, including Oklahoma Chamber Symphony and Floot Fire, Inc.
In the spring of 2023, a transformational $10 million investment of state American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for Oklahoma's arts and cultural sector was overwhelmingly supported by the Oklahoma State Legislature and approved by the Governor. The proposal was submitted by the Oklahoma Arts Council in partnership with Allied Arts OKC and Arts Alliance Tulsa, designed to boost the rebuilding of the sector across all 77 counties while catapulting it forward as an asset for developing creative workforce and strengthening the economy. This fall, applications for grant funding made possible by this historic investment will be available to organizations across Oklahoma. During this session, a panel of representatives from the partnering organizations administering the grant awards will walk participants through the guidelines and requirements of the grant program. Organizations considering applying for funding are strongly encouraged to send staff and related personnel to this session. Time will be set aside for a Q&A. Participants will also be able to sign up for "office hours" to get further assistance.
