Campus News

June 23rd, 2026

PAC receives impressive survey ratings

Performing Arts Center scores high in all 5 key metrics

McHenry, MD – The Performing Arts Center at Garrett College produced impressive survey ratings in each of a recent community survey’s five key satisfaction metrics, Garrett College and PAC officials recently announced.

The PAC had positives ratings of over 90 percent in each key metric, including facility cleanliness (98.8 percent), welcoming experience (94 percent), venue amenities and ticket purchasing (each 91.7 percent), and percent of respondents likely to recommend the venue (90.5 percent).

“Front-of-house staff were consistently viewed as professional and welcoming,” reported Julie Yoder, Garrett College’s dean of continuing education and workforce development. “Many comments also highlighted appreciation for the music, theatre, community performances, lectures, and diverse entertainment offerings.”

Chantel Lowdermilk, director of the PAC and Garrett College events, said PAC staff and college leadership learned a lot about their customers from the survey.

“Facebook and word-of-mouth were identified as the most effective marketing channels,” said Lowdermilk. “Families are the primary audience group, representing the majority of attendees, and most attendees purchase tickets well ahead of events rather than walk-up sales.”

Lowdermilk said respondents also identified opportunities for improvement, including expanded programming variety focusing on younger audiences, concession enhancements and additional seating in waiting areas, and increased advertising and community outreach.

Survey availability was promoted on the PAC’s new website, in local newspapers, and in social media.

Lowdermilk said the high ratings were a testament to the PAC’s high-quality partners – Garrett County Public Schools, Garrett County Arts Council, StageWEST, and Garrett County Government – as well as College facilities, security, custodial, business, and food services staff.