Nashville State Expands Arts Community, Welcomes David Henry as Technical Director for Creative Spaces

In a strategic move to elevate its creative presence both on campus and within the broader Nashville community, Nashville State Community College has established and filled a new role, informally known as technical director for creative spaces.

The college recently hired David Henry following a competitive search.

Henry will manage the theater, scene shop, performing arts rehearsal space, auditorium, and art gallery at the White Bridge campus.

He brings a wealth of experience and a passion for cultivating vibrant arts spaces.

Most recently, over the past 15 years, David has been an educator at J.T. Moore Middle School, where he taught orchestra and music theory. Additionally, he has served as sound designer and consultant for more than a dozen theater productions at J.T. Moore, Hillsboro High School, and Belmont United Methodist Church.

Before teaching, the Georgia native was a studio owner, engineer, and musician, along with being a record producer.

"As a lifelong musician and performer, I am delighted to have the opportunity to work in and help grow these creative spaces," said Henry.

When discussing the beauty of creation, Henry said, "Amazing art can happen anywhere and come from anyone." “I look to use my experiences to help create those opportunities here on the White Bridge campus.”

The new role reflects Nashville State’s broader mission that will begin this year to ramp up its support for academic arts programs, produce a performing arts season, and foster increased community engagement through public events. Within the next year or so, more logistical parts should be in place to support more robust community partnerships.

Henry will work closely with Kathleen Duff, the college’s events coordinator, to manage and promote a wide variety of performances, lectures, exhibits, and student showcases.

“We're looking to promote theater, dance, music, lectures, and art of all types here at Nashville State,” Henry added.

His responsibilities also include maintaining audio, lighting, and staging equipment, as well as ensuring the seamless execution of all events in the college's creative venues.

Dr. Michael Sundblad, dean of the School of Arts and Humanities, views this appointment as a crucial step in realizing a broader vision for the arts within Nashville State and how the college can support the creative classes in our communities.

“My vision for the college theater and art gallery is that they become a hub of creativity, learning, and community engagement,” said Dr. Sundblad.

"I see them as spaces where students can explore and develop their talents, where faculty can innovate in their teaching and artistic work, and where the community can come together to experience cultural and creative events."

"I want our spaces to be known not only for the quality of our concerts, exhibits, and performances but also for the way we embrace and reflect the spirit of our broader Nashville community."

Sundblad continued, "With David at the helm, I believe our theater and gallery can become true cornerstones of the arts both on campus and across the city."

With this renewed focus on arts infrastructure and leadership, Nashville State is positioning itself as a vibrant center for creativity, committed to enriching the student experience and deepening its cultural ties with the community.