University of Denver Spring 2025

ARTS & CULTURE

from the Denver-based Bonfils-Stanton Foundation. The gift funds special programs focused on cultural exchange at DU, in line with the foundation’s mission to support arts and culture in Denver. “I think it’s pretty well-proven at this point that understanding culture is a critical component of how you build relationships, how you build trust, how you build respect for another community,” says Gary Steuer, president and CEO of Bonfils-Stanton. Luke Wachter is the associate director of educational initiatives at

the Newman Center. He says cultural diplomacy is about highlighting the interconnectedness of communities around the world—the intersection of common problems and common solutions. “Art is a powerful force for change,” Wachter says. “And all of these artists bring that idea to their work. Another important part of the power of art to make change in the world is joy, and regardless of the existential threats that people are facing throughout the world, that element of joy is an essential part of humanity’s survival.”

Urban Bush Women

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UNIVERSITY OF DENVER MAGAZINE | SPRING 2025