The Mitte Cultural District Mourns the Passing of RJ Mitte

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the Mitte Cultural District shares the news of the passing of RJ Mitte, President of the Mitte Foundation, beloved friend, and dedicated champion of the arts whose commitment to Brownsville will forever be part of our community's story.

RJ was more than a supporter of the Mitte Cultural District. He was a friend, a partner, and someone who genuinely believed in the power of arts and culture to bring people together.

He believed that the Mitte Cultural District could serve as a bridge connecting generations, cultures, abilities, and communities through shared experiences and creative expression.

His commitment to Brownsville and his family's philanthropic legacy helped shape an extraordinary chapter in our cultural history, including our recent designation as a Texas Cultural District.

Reba Cardenas McNair, Chair of the Mitte Cultural District Board of Directors, shared:

"RJ was a tremendous asset to our community, and we are devastated by this loss. His commitment to Brownsville and the Mitte Cultural District went far beyond philanthropy. He genuinely believed in our community, our artists, and the power of arts and culture to bring people together.

RJ understood the importance of carrying forward his family's legacy while helping us build something meaningful for future generations. His friendship, generosity, and belief in Brownsville will never be forgotten."

Daniella Lopez Valdez, Executive Director of the Mitte Cultural District, shared:

"RJ believed in Brownsville. He believed in our artists, our children, our cultural institutions, and the incredible potential of this community. But more importantly, he believed in bringing people together.

He understood that the arts are a bridge — a bridge between generations, between cultures, between people of different abilities and backgrounds, and between where a community has been and where it dreams of going.

RJ was part of our cultural family. He celebrated our milestones, believed in our vision, and reminded us that the work we do here matters far beyond Brownsville. We will miss his friendship, his encouragement, and his unwavering belief in what this community could become."

RJ's advocacy for inclusion and accessibility reflected the very heart of our mission: creating a cultural community where differences are celebrated, barriers are removed, and the arts belong to everyone.

As we mourn this tremendous loss, we extend our deepest condolences to RJ's family, loved ones, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

We will honor his memory by continuing the work he believed in, building bridges through the arts, creating opportunities for inclusion, and ensuring that Brownsville's cultural community continues to thrive.

RJ, thank you for believing in Brownsville, for believing in our artists, and for helping us build a legacy that will connect our community for generations to come.

Your legacy will forever be woven into the story of the Mitte Cultural District.

With love and gratitude,

The Mitte Cultural District 
Board of Directors & Staff