RIVER CITY SIX – SHONTELL PRINCE
Meet Shontell Prince, president of HALLINS Corporation ( www.HALLINSCorp.com).
Tell us a little about your business. – The HALLINS Corporation is a nonprofit with the mission to inspire constructive change in underserved communities through art and music. The corporation fulfills their mission by implementing the annual Love of Art and Music (LOVAM) Jazz Festival. The ninth annual festival is scheduled for September 4, 2021 at Turner Park. This year, the Grammy nominated saxophonist Richard Elliot will be the main featured artist, along with saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa with vocalist Selina Albright, flutist Kim Scott, and local favorite, Chad Stoner. It’s a free concert that starts at 4 p.m. Additionally, the corporation hosts annual fundraisers and gives scholarships to thriving students.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The biggest challenge with working in a nonprofit is securing funding. Most nonprofits are funded by grants, donations and in-kind services. So, the challenge is to continually build partnerships within the community, corporate sponsors and foundations that believe in your vision of supporting charitable organizations and underserved communities.
Tell us a little about your family. – I am happily married with two children and two grandbabies.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – When I realized how art and music can educate, motivate and inspire people. I love that fact that music can instantly transform the lives and spirits of people. This recognition gave birth to the LOVAM Jazz Festival, which is an annual festival held during Labor Day weekend at Turner Park.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – I enjoy running and have completed over 15 half marathons across the country. Running truly sets the tone for my day and allows me to clear my mind and be at peace each morning.
What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Loyal.
If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Sara Smile” by Daryl Hall and John Oates, recorded June of 1975. The song makes me smile every single time I hear it.
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – Telekinesis. I would like to move obstacles and distractions from my day-to-day routine, with the snap of my finger.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – I truly believe in the mission of the Union of Contemporary Arts. The Union uses the arts as a vehicle to inspire positive social change, which allows them to be a strong force in strengthen the landscape of the community.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
What is your favorite TV show? – The series Ozark with Marty and Wendy Byrde. There is nothing like a good drama and crime series that can take you away from your daily trials.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Nicolas Italian Wine & Fare. I recommend the Spaghetti alla Bolognese with bacon.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – Michael Symon from the Food Network. I would love to pick his brain on food recipes and grilling tips.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – info@HALLINSCorp.com; www.HALLINSCorp.com.