The Walker created the Premier Partner program to recognize its most generous corporate partners. As leaders in the community, Premier Partners are committed to sustaining the area’s cultural fabric and helping the Walker maintain its status as one of the nation’s leading centers for contemporary art. Our Premier Partners ensure reliable support that undergirds the multidisciplinary programming that defines the Walker.
Although Chase has only operated in the Twin Cities for two years, it has quickly become an important partner to the Walker and local communities. The company recently sponsored the Walker’s 2019–2020 Performing Arts Season and the popular Art Kit program for St. Paul and Minneapolis Public School students. Recognizing the unique challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, Chase stepped up and joined the Walker as its newest Premier Partner.
In strengthening its support of the institution through Premier Partnership, Chase solidifies its status as a leading Twin Cities corporate citizen. “Beyond its leadership as a contemporary art center, the Walker’s engagement of artists and audiences contributes to the rich and vibrant culture of the Twin Cities,” says Jonathan Jensen, market director, Minnesota at Chase. “Chase is thrilled to support the fresh, exciting, and groundbreaking work that is the hallmark of the Walker.” As Mary Ceruti, the Walker’s executive director, notes, “Our partnership with Chase in this challenging time allows the Walker to reach audiences where they are and to confidently chart a course forward.”
Chase opened its first retail branch in the Twin Cities in 2019 and quickly demonstrated innovation and responsiveness to the needs of the community. The bank recently announced more than $1.75 million in philanthropic investments to help minority-owned businesses. Chase also named Minneapolis a winner of its AdvancingCities Challenge, committing $4 million to a collaborative effort tackling housing inequity. Chase’s Ventura Village branch in South Minneapolis features an enhanced format to help address the needs of underserved neighborhoods, providing small businesses and individuals with tools and resources, such as programs supporting financial health, educational workshops, and growth support for entrepreneurs.
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