Professional Partner:
David Kirk, A Social Affair, Beaches
Photography by Angie Ray
Kathryn Wallis
Kathryn is the Executive Director of the Beaches Fine Arts Series, Inc. (BFAS). She earned her BA at Duke University in 1971 and also an MAT at Jacksonville University in 1976. She has been employed at the Duke University Medical Center Library, as an English Instructor for Jacksonville University and currently at the Beaches Fine Arts Series Inc.
Kathryn has an extensive performance history stretching from 1970 to present. She has performed in the Durham Savoyards Gilbert and Sullivan operettas cast, in various roles in the Jacksonville Theater, with both the Karen Armel’s Madrigal and Lee Wade Singers touring ensemble and currently is a member of the St. John’s Cathedral Choir.
Kathryn’s involvement with the BFAS began in 1976, when she met Jim Johnson, its founder. For many years she was active as a volunteer for the series, and upon Jim’s retirement, the Board asked her to become the second Executive Director. As the only full time paid staff, until May, 2009, she has learned much about the workings of arts organizations, the performing arts industry, the fundraising profession and unbelievably, the running of triathlons. The growth of the organization and the dedication of its many volunteers, who believe in the power of music to affect the hearts and minds of people, are inspirations to her.
Her membership in Professional Organizations is extensive including the Association of Fundraising Professionals and ACE (Arts for a Complete Education). She is a founding member of the Duval Coalition, is an active member of the Chamber Music of America and serves on the Mayo Clinic Humanities in Medicine Board.
For 38 years Kathy has been married to Don Wallis who is a lawyer with Upchurch Bailey Upchurch in St. Augustine. She has two children: Neill, an archaeologist teaching at University of West Florida, and Kate, working on a Master's degree in English at UNF. Kathy is the proud owner of a 22-year-old cat named Cindy. She has lived in Jacksonville for 35 years, likes to play tennis and sail, although she admits she is a fair weather sailor!
Practice Photos
