In addition to John’s work at Eckerd College, he was especially engaged in developing the strength and integrity of the programs offered at the Arts Center. John was the Artist Representative on the Arts Center’s board and taught clay classes there. He was a wonderful volunteer and provided a voice for all artists in the community. When John’s term was up, he asked Russ Gustafson-Hilton to take his place on the Board. After his untimely death in 1987, the Arts Center set up a memorial award in his name that is given out every year during the Members Show.