Having worked just down the hall from Witt Siasoco for over three years, there are a few things I can tell you with absolute certainty:

1. The man is an unfailing barometer for cool. Not trendy, mind you. COOL.

2. It’s easier to take advantage of his good nature early in the morning, before he’s had his coffee.

3. He works as the Lone Male is a department full of women. He shows no fear when the conversation suddenly takes a turn towards fashion or gossip at the weekly staff meeting. In fact, he has some very interesting opinions on the latest celebrity couples. (Kidding. Sort of.)

4. And did I mention how well he skateboards?

5. He gives a damn about the arts. He gives a damn about teens. He gives a damn about teens in the arts, and 10 years of service at the Walker is proof of that. There are dozens of organizations and colleagues around the Twin Cities (and beyond) who have had the chance to work with Witt Siasoco and sung his praises. I’ve seen many of them roaming these very hallways. Kulture Klub, The Soap Factory, Juxtaposition Arts, Intermedia Arts, MCBA, Perpich Center, TCYMN….shall I go on? I could, you know. For ages.

There’s a reason that when national conversations around teen audiences and the arts come up that the Walker and Witt Siasoco are among the first words out. His excellence in teen programming and community outreach and collaboration has now brought him to the attention of Americans for the Arts. Witt Siasoco was selected to receive a 2008 Professional Development Fund for Emerging Leaders of Color. As one of only twelve recipients chosen, Witt will have the opportunity to attend three national arts conventions and participate in mentorship programs to further develop professional growth and leadership skills.

How cool is it that they recognize what we already know about Witt? Pretty. Damn. Cool.