🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, Per White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced via a post that the board's approval was consensus, citing "the unbelievable work 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 attain new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt added. The intended name change is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and dedication for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Shortly after assuming the presidency, President Donald Trump fired all the center's existing board members and appointed allies in their place. The reconstituted board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover significant upgrades and associated costs at the aging venue. Original Concept The concept for a federal performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the planned venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This report is being updated. Additional information will be provided shortly.