American University: Arts Management
John Philligin received his Master of Arts in Arts Management from American University in 2013. After completing his degree in Violin Performance from East Carolina University in 2011, John chose to attend the program at AU for its incredible faculty, small class size, and robust network of alumni in the field.
“The Arts Management program at AU was instrumental in preparing me for a successful career in fundraising while also providing an extensive understanding of how successful nonprofits are and should be led. Although my primary focus has been on major and principal gift strategy for individuals, I have also worked closely with corporate, foundation, and government funders. I have worked organizations such as Houston Grand Opera, Teach For America, The Washington Ballet, Children’s National Medical Center Foundation, and the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County.
Over the years, I have been an independent consultant to small to mid-size arts organizations while assisting in fundraising and capacity building efforts. He has led projects for the Maryland Lyric Opera, The In Series, Flying V Theatre, Chamber Dance Project, and The Washington Sinfonietta.
Additionally, I have had the pleasure of serving on the junior board of the Washington National Opera, the board of The Washington Sinfonietta, and as a grant panelist for the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities.
I cannot give enough gratitude and praise to the Arts Management faculty at AU for their outstanding breadth of instruction, genuine care and mentorship, and ability to transform a spunky young artist into a savvy arts administrator in two fast-paced years.
American University
Katzen Arts Center
4400 Massachusetts Ave NW
Washington, DC 20016
United States
