🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, According to White House Statement. Image Source The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has voted 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 vote was unified, citing "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in preserving the building." "This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt noted. The intended name change is likely to prove highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its construction and original naming for President John F. Kennedy. Context of the Center Shortly after beginning his term, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and installed allies in their stead. The freshly appointed board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in congressional funding to cover significant upgrades and other financial needs at the historic venue. Inception The concept for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the then-under-construction venue was dedicated to his memory. This report is being updated. Additional information will be published soon.