🔗 Share this article Kennedy Center Set for Significant Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has decided to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's decision was unanimous, citing "the unbelievable work President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This promises to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of success and grandeur," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is expected to be deeply divisive, particularly in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Not long after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named allies in their positions. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to pay for major renovations and operational expenses at the aging venue. Inception The vision for a Washington-based performing arts center was first proposed in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was named in his honor. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be published soon.