We are so fortunate he chose San Diego to build his legacy.” Behind the curtainĪs a teenager, Ziter sang in school choirs, performed in school plays and dreamed of a career onstage. That’s the thing about Alan, he has not only he been a great leader, he’s always been that leader who mentors other leaders.

I consider him to be a friend and mentor. He’s the most quietly persuasive person I’ve ever met and he has taught me so much about how to operate in the arts community. “I feel fortunate to have graduated from the unofficial Alan Ziter School of Arts Leadership. My husband, Osborn, and I give Alan much credit for engaging us during that period,” Hurston said. “Alan Ziter is among a handful of administrative arts leaders who, during the’ 90s, began to elevate the trajectory of the San Diego arts community.

“He believes strongly that we can accomplish far more by working together than by working alone, that success by one can foster the success of all, and I have watched this selfless ethos underpin all his efforts.”Īnd playwright Dea Hurston, who has worked in San Diego’s theater community for 32 years as an underwriter, arts commissioner, community engagement leader, gala planner and diversity advocate, credits Ziter with fueling her interest as an arts advocate. “Alan believes strongly in community,” Purves said. “I am confident he will continue to impact our community in positive ways, and I hope he enjoys his well-earned retirement.”īill Purves, who hired Ziter in 1986 to run the organization now known as the San Diego Performing Arts League, said the fact the League and Arts Tix are still going strong today “is a tribute to many people, but it’s in no small measure due to the foundation laid and fostered for almost 20 years by Alan. “It has been a great pleasure working with Alan through the years and I am so grateful for everything Alan has done to advance the arts at Liberty Station and in the greater San Diego community,” Johnson said. Lisa Johnson, president and CEO of NTC Foundation, said she’s sorry to see Ziter go.

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