Last December, in 2023, we lost Wier Harman – Town Hall’s beloved leader of 17 years and a person I was lucky to know and work with for seven of those years. Rarely does a day go by that I don’t think of him. 

If you didn’t have the pleasure of meeting Wier, know he was instrumental in growing Town Hall into a nationally unique organization. And most of all, he was genuinely interested in everyone who walked through our doors; he wanted to know you, and he wanted Town Hall to be a place for you. You can read more about Wier and his contributions to Town Hall here.  

Over the past year, we have grieved Wier’s absence, quietly in our own ways, while celebrating his incredible legacy with friends at Town Hall. His presence continues to resonate deeply in all that Town Hall does. Wier was creative, curious, warm, and connected – all characteristics that embody what we stand for as an organization. 

That warmth and connection are what make Town Hall so much more than just a building. On any given night, you might share a pew with fellow music lovers in the Great Hall, marveling at the gorgeous acoustics of the room together; you might grab a snack at the Otto Bar and chat with a local author in the Wyncote NW Forum; or you might ponder life’s big questions alongside new friends in the Mehdi Reading Room. Wherever you land at Town Hall, one thing’s for certain: you won’t land there alone. You’ll be in good company when you find yourself on Wier Harman Way. 

Wier knew our time here together is about the memories we create, the conversations we share, and the connections we nurture. Each moment at Town Hall reflects his vision of a welcoming and vibrant space for everyone. The events that take place in our building help people to learn, find joy, and scratch the itch of human curiosity – and maybe make a new friend or two in the process. And in turn, we find a little bit of light and hope among each other. 

As we approach another new year, the Town Hall staff and board remain committed to carrying Wier’s dream forward with dedication and care, growing the community he loved so deeply. In 2025, we are excited to spotlight our new Oculus Series and continue to amplify voices that challenge, inspire, and expand our understanding of the world. We’ll also continue our commitment to keeping Town Hall an accessible and affordable place for our own events and for our valued rental partners, ensuring that Wier’s vision thrives in every corner of the building. 

Whether or not you had the chance to know Wier, we are all stewards of a place he loved, and I hope you’re proud to be part of Town Hall. I know he would be proud of us, too. 

With appreciation,

Kate Nagle-Caraluzzo, Executive Director
Town Hall Seattle