The Anne Arundel Scottish Festival, Inc., is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1991 and incorporated in the State of Maryland. Our objectives are to:
Enhance the knowledge of and appreciation for the history, customs, and traditions of Scotland;
Foster friendship; and
Promote interest in the culture and heritage of Scotland through the annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games.
John Dodds, Founder
Mr. John Dodds,
president of The Anne Arundel Scottish Festival, Inc. (1991-2006),
formally announced his resignation in January 2007.
The Board of
Directors recognizes Mr. Dodds’ 16-years of outstanding leadership in
transforming an idea and creating the annual Scottish Festival &
Highland Games. The present success of the organization is entirely due
to John Dodds’ inspiration and considerable skills in solving the
innumerable number of demands associated with creating and operating a
non-profit organization.
The
AASFI was incorporated in February 1991 to promote Scottish Highland
Games and further the understanding of Scottish arts, culture, and
traditions through festivals, concerts, and other events.
John Dodds
Prior
to the first annual Scottish Festival-Games, John spent two years
visiting other events throughout the region and was the catalyst in
developing the goals and objectives for the organization’s Articles of
Incorporation in 1991. The inaugural Festival-Games was held on October
10, 1992, at the Anne Arundel Fairgrounds on Generals Highway in
Crownsville, Maryland.
Many innovations brought to the
festival-games were a direct outgrowth from John’s past membership in
the Robert Burns Society of Annapolis. As president for three terms
(1984-1990), John established numerous hospitality links with
organizations in Scotland.
His perseverance and dedication to that
organization was reflected in the creation of The Anne Arundel Scottish
Festival, Inc. He leaves behind an outstanding record as a national
leader in furthering Scottish culture, customs, and traditions.
John
was born and raised in Dundee, Scotland. He left his native Scotland
and came to America in 1959. Since his arrival, Mr. Dodds served
honorably in the U.S. Army, has held construction-related senior
management positions throughout his career, and is currently the senior
real estate manager for the Anne Arundel County government.
