Today we’d like to introduce you to Rosemary Watts
Hi Rosemary, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After serving for 4.5 years as the City of Dunwoody’s Economic Development Business Retention and Cultural Development Manager, I stepped into the role of Executive Director at Create Dunwoody in September 2024. This new opportunity allows me to bring my experience, passion, and vision for our community to the forefront as we continue to grow Dunwoody into a cultural hub.
My journey in both business and the arts has uniquely shaped my approach to this role. I studied at the Georgetown University School of Languages and Linguistics, where I developed strong communication skills that have been invaluable in working with diverse groups and stakeholders. Later, I earned an MBA from Georgia Tech, which gave me the strategic and business acumen to navigate the complexities of economic development and community engagement. These academic experiences, combined with my love for the arts, have equipped me to foster both business growth and cultural vitality in Dunwoody.
Beyond my professional qualifications, my passion for the arts has always been a central part of my life. I taught piano for several years and took classes at the Spruill Arts Center, which deepened my appreciation for the creative spirit that thrives in our community. These experiences have further fueled my desire to ensure that the arts remain a vibrant part of Dunwoody’s development.
I have lived in Dunwoody since 1996, and both of my children went all the way through Dunwoody schools. Watching our city grow and evolve over the years has been a rewarding experience. From its diverse neighborhoods to its local businesses and cultural offerings, Dunwoody has become a place I am proud to call home. As I step into this new role, I look forward to continuing to see Dunwoody thrive, with even more opportunities for cultural expression and artistic endeavors. My goal as Executive Director of Create Dunwoody is to support and expand our local arts scene, creating a dynamic community that attracts residents and visitors alike.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey to this position has not been without its struggles. I have faced challenges of navigating the complexities of the businesses and residences and the City’s approach to arts and cultural development. Often, progress felt slow, but each obstacle taught me invaluable lessons and reinforced my commitment to Dunwoody’s growth. Overcoming these hurdles has made me even more determined to shape a thriving and vibrant community where the arts and culture play a key role in economic development.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Over the years, I have had the privilege of spearheading a range of cultural heritage events in Dunwoody, including Holi, Diwali, Black History Month, AAPI Heritage Month, Latino Hispanic Heritage Month, and the Holiday Celebration. These events were designed not only to celebrate the diversity of our community but also to bring people together in meaningful ways. From the colorful celebrations of Holi and Diwali to the powerful reflections during AAPI and Latino Hispanic months, these events highlighted the unique cultures that make up Dunwoody. I also launched the Storefront Art Exhibit, which transformed local businesses into platforms for showcasing local high school student artists and their work. These initiatives attracted thousands of visitors, many of whom came to support local businesses, further strengthening the city’s economic and cultural vitality.
What I am most proud of is the opportunity these events provided for students, businesses, and non-profits to engage with the community in ways they hadn’t before. It was truly inspiring to see local community members performing, creating, and interacting with residents, and businesses benefiting from the increased foot traffic and visibility. Non-profits had a chance to share their missions, forming new connections and partnerships. The experiences gained by all who participated—whether through showcasing their talents, selling their wares, or forming meaningful relationships—are what I’m most proud of. These events not only brought joy to Dunwoody but also provided lasting opportunities for growth and empowerment. What sets me apart is my ability to create spaces where individuals and organizations can come together to celebrate their unique contributions while fostering a sense of unity and pride in our community.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
People can collaborate with Create Dunwoody and support our mission to provide enriching cultural events, programs, and art to our community. One of the most impactful ways to get involved is by volunteering time and expertise. Volunteers help bring our events to life, from planning and day-of support. We also welcome sponsorships from businesses and individuals who are passionate about supporting the arts and local culture—sponsorships enable us to expand our offerings and reach more people.
Additionally, I love to collaborate with others and am always open to fresh ideas that can enhance what we’re doing. If you have an idea for an event, an art program, or a way to improve our community engagement, I would love to hear from you! Participation is another vital way people can support Create Dunwoody. Whether attending events, submitting artwork, or performing, your involvement directly contributes to the vibrancy of our arts and cultural scene.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.createdunwoody.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/createdunwoody
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createdunwody
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/createdunwoody
Image Credits
Photographer: Boon Vong
