ArtsBuild recognizes the recipients of the 2022 Ruth Holmberg Arts Leadership Award – Hacker and Kitty Caldwell and Charlie and Iantha Newton.

The annual Ruth Holmberg Arts Leadership Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts in Chattanooga and who are actively engaged in the cultural life of our community— “Arts Builders” who exemplify ArtsBuild’s mission to build a stronger community through the arts as demonstrated by their significant contributions to the arts and their leadership. 

ArtsBuild President James McKissic said, “We are delighted to honor these two couples for their incredible dedication, passion, and support for the arts. Each in their own way, these inspiring ‘Arts Builders’ have positively impacted the lives of many people in Chattanooga through the arts and have elevated the arts in a way that builds pride in our city and makes our community stronger.”

Hacker and Kitty Caldwell 

Hacker and Kitty Caldwell have been engaged in the civic and cultural life of Chattanooga for decades. After completing his MBA at the University of Virginia, Mr. Caldwell returned to his hometown of Chattanooga to work for the appliance manufacturing company his great-grandfather started in 1904, originally named Tennessee Stove Works and then Modern Maid in the 1960s. When the company was sold and production moved to South Carolina, Mr. Caldwell turned to a long career and successful business managing hedge funds. 

Originally from Virginia, Mrs. Caldwell joined Mr. Caldwell in Chattanooga in the late seventies after they were married. Having studied American art history in college, she immediately…