🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Significant Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to Administration Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of grandeur and success," Leavitt continued. The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an beloved institution since its founding and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Background of the Venue Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump replaced all the center's existing board members and named allies in their stead. The newly constituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in appropriated money to cover extensive repairs and associated costs at the national venue. Inception The concept for a national performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. Further context will be added as it becomes available.