2026 Grand Center Gala

A Grand Celebration

​Grand Center, Inc. is proud to honor former Mayor of St. Louis and CEO of Grand Center, Inc., Vince Schoemehl, at our 2026 Gala. Vince has been one of St. Louis’ most active civic leaders and a visionary champion for the future of the City. As the 42nd Mayor of St. Louis, serving three terms from 1981 to 1993, he led transformative efforts in neighborhood revitalization, economic development, historic preservation, and public-private partnership that helped shape contemporary St. Louis. During his tenure, he created both the Regional Arts Commission and the Convention and Visitors Commission — institutions that continue to serve our community in meaningful ways every day. Vince continued his service to St. Louis and to the Grand Center Arts District during his nearly 15-year tenure as President and CEO of Grand Center, Inc. from 2001 to 2015. During that time, GCI created the Grand Center TIF District, which helped spur much of the investment the District has seen over the past 25 years. His leadership helped establish Grand Center as a nationally recognized arts and entertainment district and a cornerstone of the region’s cultural vitality. Throughout his distinguished career, Vince has remained deeply committed to the growth, vibrancy, and future of St. Louis, leaving a lasting legacy of civic leadership, innovation, and community impact.