Planning with Purpose: Westmoreland Cultural Trust’s Next Chapter
When Westmoreland Cultural Trust approached the Prouty Project, they were at a pivotal moment. At the heart of Pennsylvania’s Westmoreland County, the Trust’s responsibilities are far-reaching:
- Managing community assets
- Presenting arts and entertainment offerings
- Supporting presenting arts organizations
- Developing a historical, cultural, and entertainment district
The organization’s newly appointed CEO, Benjamin Luczak, joined from a performing arts institution in Iowa and quickly became a trusted, respected leader. The board, previously very hands-on, was ready to entrust Ben with more responsibility, recognizing his vision and capability.
They were facing big questions:
Who are we now? How can we continue creating growth in the community?
Our Approach
Prouty Consultant Samantha met Ben just three months into his role. What followed was a fast-paced, all-in, strategic planning engagement designed to redefine the organization’s future.
Every Prouty design journey begins with listening. Through surveys, interviews, and community conversations, we gathered insights from the board, staff, and partners. Then, what often takes months was accomplished in two focused days.
The input revealed something rare: unanimous excitement and alignment around Ben’s vision. Samantha observed: “It was some of the most aligned and committed work I have seen a leadership team do. It shows how a strong aspirational vision can truly inspire and unify a team.”
She was reminded of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s timeless words:
“If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the men to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.”
Collaboration. Community. Creativity.
Samantha credits the speed to an exceptionally aligned team and a decisive leader. Her improv background—which encouraged curiosity, deep listening, and in-the-moment adaptability—helped her spot opportunities and adjust in real time.
Impact & Reflections
By the end of the engagement, Westmoreland Cultural Trust had:
- A refreshed mission statement
- A clear, authentic set of values
- A future-ready strategic plan
Just as importantly, the leadership team left with renewed confidence in each other—ready to steward the Trust into its next 100 years.
About Westmoreland Cultural Trust
Westmoreland Cultural Trust is a conduit for communities to thrive. They do so by welcoming broad forms of artistic expression, forging purposeful partnerships, and programming meaningful arts education and engagement activities. The Trust has invested over $21 million in community restorations since its inception, serves 157,000 patrons and guests annually, and has an annual economic impact of $13 million.
Learn more about this Prouty Project client at westmorelandculturaltrust.org.
“The two-day intensive resulted in a guide to be better community partners and a
plan to expand our already robust cultural offerings, while celebrating the centennial of
The Palace Theatre in 2026.”
-Benjamin Luczak
The Prouty Difference
At the Prouty Project, we don’t just create a plan. We design and facilitate an experience to achieve your desired result.
Is your team asking big questions about the future? Reach out—we’d love to explore how the Prouty Project can help you uncover clarity, alignment, and purpose.