How has being part of the AAAE community enriched your academic or professional network?
The network of AAAE is generous and multi-generational. As with most networks, it is fantastic to find peers; however, what is unique about AAAE is that you also find mentors and mentees. The intergenerationally of the community lends itself to a continuous continuity of development of the arts administration education field with deep-rooted connections which support both individual and collective growth.
What was your experience like at an annual conference?
As the only full-time faculty member in my unit, I’ve appreciated the opportunity to attend the annual conference and to meet colleagues from programs across the world. Presenters and attendees have been so willing to share what they’re doing in their respective programs – what’s working, what’s not – and to speak candidly about shared challenges in the field, as educators and as nonprofit arts leaders. It’s easy to get lost in the day-to-day of running a graduate program and is so helpful to be able to think about the big picture of both the arts and cultural sector and of higher education together.
