🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per Administration Announcement. Image Source The leadership board of the renowned performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's vote was unified, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Venue Soon after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their positions. The reconstituted board subsequently voted to appoint Trump as chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and operational expenses at the historic venue. Historical Roots The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory. This is a developing story. Further context will be added as it becomes available.