🔗 Share this article John F. Kennedy Center Set for Major Renaming to Trump-Kennedy Performing Arts Center, As Stated by White House Announcement. Image Source The governing board of the iconic performing arts venue has approved a measure to be renamed the Trump-Kennedy Center, per an announcement by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the extraordinary job President Trump has done over the last year in rescuing the building." "This promises 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 proposed move is shaping up as highly controversial, especially in Washington, D.C., where the center has served as an architectural and cultural icon since its completion and christening for President John F. Kennedy. Recent History of the Institution Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all the center's incumbent trustees and named supporters in their place. The freshly appointed board then voted to elect Trump chairman. The president later secured approximately $257 million in federal funds to cover major renovations and associated costs at the historic venue. Inception The idea 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 future venue was christened the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Further details are emerging. Additional information will be provided shortly.