08/07/2026
In Loving Memory of Dr. Sandra Field
Today marks one year since the passing of our beloved co-founder and longtime President, Dr. Sandra Field, and her absence continues to be deeply felt throughout the Joye in Aiken family and the community she loved so dearly.
Sandra's vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the arts transformed Joye in Aiken from a dream into one of the region's most impactful cultural organizations. Since co-founding the organization in 2008 alongside Gregory White Smith and Steven Naifeh, Sandra dedicated herself to bringing world-class artistic experiences to Aiken while ensuring arts education reached thousands of young people through our outreach programs.
Her influence remains evident in everything we do.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions and enduring legacy, the Joye in Aiken Board of Trustees dedicated the 2025-2026 season to Sandra's memory. It was one of the most energetic, inspiring, and successful seasons in our history. From unforgettable performances to meaningful community engagement, the season reflected the values Sandra championed throughout her life: excellence, accessibility, service, and joy.
Many of us believe that Sandra's spirit was with us every step of the way, continuing to inspire and guide the organization she helped build. Her passion for enriching lives through the arts remains at the heart of our mission and continues to shape our future.
Sandra often reminded us that true joy is found not only in the arts, but in faith, hope, and service to others. Her legacy lives on in the more than 700 world-class artists who have graced our stages, the tens of thousands of students whose lives have been touched through arts education, and the countless audience members who have experienced the transformative power of performance because of her vision.
As we pause today to remember Sandra, we do so with gratitude for her life, her leadership, and the countless gifts she shared with our community. While we miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy continues through the work she loved and the mission she entrusted to all of us.
Thank you, Sandra, for your faith, your friendship, your vision, and your unwavering belief in the power of bringing "Joye for All."
You are forever remembered, forever appreciated, and forever a part of Joye in Aiken.
With gratitude and remembrance,
Eric Boetsch
President, Joye in Aiken and the Board of Trustees
"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Psalm 34:18
