Civic Leaders
Betsy Price, Jessica Christopherson, Dennis Shingleton, Tom Martens, Chelsea Adler, Mitch Whitten, Ann Zadeh, Bob Jameson, Brandom Genglebach
We asked a handful of prominent Fort Worthians to define the city's culture. While each answer proved how difficult it is to put our diverse home in a box, their responses are also incredibly insightful. Every person's perception of Fort Worth is different, but they all have one thing in common: a love for their home.
Betsy Price, Mayor
Fort Worth’s culture is truly unique, offering residents a small-town feel with big city amenities. A city comprised of friendly, hospitable, and compassionate residents that unite to solve its problems. Fort Worth’s culture is humble, yet creative and ever-evolving.
Dennis Shingleton, District 7 Council Member
I don’t know if our culture has a “funky” characteristic or attribute, but if our city or any faction of it embraces a “funky” thing or two, it will not be the derailment of a great city but the side car that we bring along with us. Fort Worth is an accepting town of veterans, retirees, infants, homeless, students, mothers, fathers, and singles. All are growing together for our mutual quality of life.
Brandom Gengelbach, Executive Vice President of Economic Development, Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce
Fort Worth residents have always been trailblazers with the grit to get stuff done. We envision the future and work together to make it happen. Surveys of residents and visitors tell us that one of our best assets is our hospitality. Fort Worth is about welcoming people as they are, not as we want them to be.
Jessica Christopherson, AVP Marketing and Film Commissioner, Visit Fort Worth and Fort Worth Film Commission
It’s hard to define the entire city’s culture. But, for me, Fort Worth’s is a unique mix of world-renowned art institutions; amazing Texas history; and proud, friendly, diverse individuals who are passionate about their city.
Tom Martens, Creative Director, Visit Fort Worth and Hear Fort Worth
We have music, distilleries, craft beer, incredible food, and an amazing nightlife. We are still writing the definition of what Fort Worth’s culture is, and I am excited to be here helping tell the story.
Mitch Whitten, Executive Vice President, Visit Fort Worth
Unbelievable determination and hospitality. For 170 years, far-sighted visionaries have forged a renaissance out of a frontier town on Trinity River. Today, a new generation is tapping this spirit to make our community even better than before.
Bob Jameson, President and CEO, Visit Fort Worth
Fort Worth is the Texas many people are looking for. For some that means a horse and saddle. For many, it means working together with uncommon determination to make our community better than ever.
Chelsea Adler, Deputy Chief of Staff, Mayor Price and City Council
Fort Worth has been defined by a pioneering spirit since it was founded. It is that same pulse that propels our city forward to fresh, new horizons. Fort Worth is a city you can grow with.
Ann Zadeh, District 9 Council Member
Fort Worth is a big city with a small-town, friendly, welcoming personality. The Cowtown/Funkytown dichotomy and combination just add to the diverse community that we are and provide for an interesting place to live, work, and play.
