Chris Harrison plans new era of growth and community engagement
The Georgia Ballet Board of Trustees appointed Chris Harrison as Chair of its Board of Trustees on July 1, 2025. Harrison succeeds Sam Hensley, Jr., who faithfully served in the role for 15 years, guiding the organization through remarkable milestones of artistic and community impact.
Harrison, who has served as a Trustee for six years, has already made significant contributions to The Georgia Ballet’s governance and strategic development, welcoming two new trustees, Antar Jamison and Steve Hardy, whose expertise and passion for the arts strengthen the organization’s foundation for the future.
“The Georgia Ballet represents the intersection of artistic excellence, community connection, and transformative opportunity,” said Chris Harrison, Chair, The Georgia Ballet Board of Trustees. “I am proud to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees to help elevate its legacy and expand its impact across Georgia.”
Harrison, a Marietta resident and parent of two dancers at The Georgia Ballet School, has witnessed firsthand the impact of the organization’s work with families, students, and the broader community.
“I’ve witnessed The Georgia Ballet captivate audiences and uplift families and students through its performances and outreach,” continues Harrison. “It’s a rare organization that blends professional artistry with such heart and accessibility… truly a cultural gem for our region. As a parent of two dancers at The Georgia Ballet School, I can attest to the quality education we provide with a direct path to professional dance careers.”
Harrison vision for the organization emphasizes the importance of sustainability and innovation:
“My vision as Chairman is to ensure The Georgia Ballet continues to thrive as a beacon of creative excellence, youth development, and cultural enrichment,” says Harrison. “We are actively working to broaden our reach, deepen our community engagement, and attract new resources to secure long-term sustainability. By strengthening partnerships, expanding educational access, and championing innovation in programming, we will set a bold trajectory for the future of ballet in Georgia. This isn’t just about performances, it’s about empowering lives through the arts.”
About Chris Harrison
Chris Harrison serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Georgia Ballet, where he brings a deep passion for the arts, education, and community development. A strategic leader and experienced executive, Harrison also leads a growing technology consultancy and holds leadership roles across education, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit sectors. His commitment to impact is rooted in a lifelong belief that the arts are not just expressions of beauty but catalysts for connection, growth, and opportunity.
Outside of his professional pursuits, he is a father of four, a doctoral student at the University of South Florida, and an advocate for youth empowerment through both sports and the arts. His multifaceted background — spanning tech, teaching, and coaching — fuels a practical yet forward-thinking approach to governance, helping The Georgia Ballet navigate a dynamic future with clarity and vision.
About The Georgia Ballet
Founded in 1960, The Georgia Ballet is one of the state’s premier professional ballet companies and schools, dedicated to artistic excellence, accessible education, and community connection. Now celebrating its 65th Anniversary Season, The Georgia Ballet continues to inspire audiences through professional performances, nurture the next generation of dancers through its School, and reach thousands of community members annually through outreach initiatives.
