AEC History

The Arts & Education Council (AEC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing unique programs in the arts that celebrate and promote learning, creative expression, and the power of ideas for adults and children. The organization began in 1952 as the Adult Education Council and was one of 12 pilot agencies founded by a Ford Foundation grant. In 1983, the Adult Education Council changed its name to the Arts & Education Council to more accurately reflect its outreach in Chattanooga. The AEC is the only organization of the 12 still in existence.

The AEC receives support from Allied Arts of Greater Chattanooga, Tennessee Arts Commission, local and regional foundations, corporations, community, and individual contributors.


Senator Gore, Sr. (far right) is among
guests on the AEC television show,
Point of View, the longest running
show of its kind in the world.



First Annual Meeting (1952)