Biography:
Adia Edmondson (she/her) is a performing artist, arts administrator, and community leader with diverse experiences in the arts and community engagement. Originally from New York and Connecticut, Adia currently lives in Philadelphia, PA, where she is attending Drexel University and pursuing a Master’s degree in Arts Administration and Museum Leadership and a minor in Arts in Public Health, as well as a College Teaching non-credit certificate program. Prior to pursuing this degree, Adia received her BA in Dance and Theater with a concentration in Dance Therapy and a minor in Studio Art and Psychology from Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY. Currently, outside of the classroom Adia is a Mentor Coordinator with the DREAM program and Pilates Teacher in training at Drexel University’s Pilates studio. She was recently accepted into Pentacle’s Arts Administration internship program, which begins late January. Adia has also engaged in a variety of experiences in community service, education, and the arts, working with organizations such as JUNTOS Collective, Dancing Classrooms, Groove With Me, City Year, Tessitura, Tom O’Conner Consulting Group, and many others. In her spare time, Adia enjoys dancing, trying new foods, and exploring the rich Philadelphia arts and culture community. Adia’s long term goal is to teach in higher education within a performing arts and/or arts administration department, as well as teach diverse movement/fitness styles in a variety of community settings.
Statement of Interest:
I plan to serve on the AAAE board of directors with a growth mindset, as well as eagerness, organization, and responsibility. My experiences in the performing arts, program coordination, marketing, volunteer management, and event planning will support me in this position, however I recognize that I am an emerging arts administrator, therefore I will be honest about what I don’t know and what I’m willing to learn more about from my fellow board members. I am a hard working individual that will do my best to support AAAE to the best of my ability as a student board member that will hopefully grow into a regular board member in the future. I aspire to stay within the AAAE network and continue to grow my network and professional skills. I am interested in serving on the AAAE Board of Directors because I joined the AAAE network last year while working as an intern for the conference, and I’m eager to learn more about how AAAE operates and support its enriching programming. This will be the first time I am serving on a board and I am happy to have this opportunity within a positive network where I feel supported and have room to grow to my full potential. Through my academic studies at Drexel University, as well as participation in a board prep program with Young Involved Philadelphia, I feel prepared to take this next step in my professional journey as an emerging arts administrator. I’m committed to the responsibilities of serving as a student board member with AAAE.
Biography:
Born and raised in Flagstaff, Arizona, my deep-rooted appreciation for the arts became evident early on. I participated in various opportunities in studio art, dance, theatre, music, piano performance and singing. This passion guided me to pursue and associate degree in performing arts at Eastern Arizona, followed by a bachelor's degree in theatre education with a minor in studio art from Northern Arizona University. Post-graduation, I embarked on a journey that began teaching theatre to 6th to 12th graders at a private school in Wisconsin. Subsequently, I transitioned into the private sector in various roles and later delved into to public sector as a budget analyst for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation. Despite this shift in focus, my theatre and art background proved unexpectedly valuable in my professional roles. Daily engagements required skills honed in theatre, such as effective communication, relationship-building, and problem solving. Working in diverse environments, I cultivated expertise in budgets, billing, customer service, and staff training. Upon relocating to New Mexico in 2020, I decided to rekindle my passion for teaching and the arts, by seizing the unique opportunity during the pandemic, to establish my own piano studio. The studio flourished, attracting over 50 students in less than 2 years. Encouraged by this success, I sought further enrichment and applied to the Arts Administration program at Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah. Embracing this transformative experience, I have solidified my commitment to the arts, teaching, and, most significantly, advocating for their vital role in our society. I am a lifelong lover of all things outside and can often be found hiking, kayaking, canoeing, and most recently sailing with my partner Craig and our dog Maggie. I also enjoy oil painting, crocheting, paper crafting and a good cup of tea.
Statement of Interest:
My motivation for seeking a position on the AAAE board stems from a desire for continued personal and professional growth through collaboration with current arts administration professionals. Drawing upon the rich variety of my experiences in various art forms coupled with a robust educational background, I bring a well-rounded understanding of the arts. The intersection of my professional journey in both the private and public sectors coupled with my profound knowledge of the arts provides a distinctive and comprehensive perspective. This synthesis uniquely positions me to contribute a unique viewpoint to the AAAE board. I firmly believe in the transformative power and significance of cultivating trustworthy relationships. Understanding that genuine magic unfolds within the realm of strong connections, I actively welcome and cherish diverse perspectives and life experiences. It is my conviction that through fostering such relationships, meaningful accomplishments can be achieved. If I am selected to serve on the AAAE board, my goal is not only to establish meaningful connections but also gain insights to become a more effective arts administrator. I look forward to the opportunity to learn, collaborate and contribute to the vibrant community within the AAAE. Service on the AAAE Board of Directors presents a valuable opportunity for me to actively participate in, observe, and learn from the experienced individuals already contributing to the board’s mission. I firmly believe that education stems from diverse sources, and engaging with board members would provide a unique and enriching learning experience for me. I am drawn to the AAAE's mission statement, particularly its commitment to the advancement of art, inclusivity, equity, and resilience – concepts that resonate with me. Reflecting on Frank Lloyd Wright's insight that "Space is the breath of art," I see AAAE as the space where educators can advance their skills and empower arts administrators to bring the transformative power of art to the world. Serving on this board would be a profound privilege, allowing me to further understand and contribute to the crucial role of arts administrators as the vital connectors between audiences and the world of art.
Biography:
Gillian Kim is a PhD candidate specializing in Cultural Policy and Arts Management at The Ohio State University. Serving as the Delegate of the Arts Administration, Education, and Policy department, and as a member of the Council of Graduate Students Arts & Culture Committee at Ohio State, she actively contributes to the academic and cultural community. Gillian holds double bachelor's degrees in Communication Arts and Art from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and earned her master's degree in Arts Management from Carnegie Mellon University's Heinz College. Her pre-graduate studies involved impactful roles in various arts sectors, including the Busan International Film Festival, City Theatre, Pittsburgh Glass Center, and Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council. Through these experiences, she worked towards making arts programs more accessible to the public. With a profound commitment to breaking down barriers hindering public engagement with the arts, Gillian's doctoral research, recognized with a top graduate research award at the 2022 STP&A Conference, explores citizen participation in the decision-making process of creative placemaking. Her advocacy focuses on promoting inclusive governance and participatory democracy. Beyond her doctoral research, Gillian has made significant contributions to various research projects, including "Racial Equity & Arts Funding in Greater Pittsburgh," "Arts and Economic Prosperity in Allegheny County," and "Economic Impacts of the Pittsburgh Zoo and PPG Aquarium." Currently, she collaborates with the Arts Education Partnership, studying the characteristics of Arts Education Leadership. She is eager to bring her passion for inclusive arts to the AAAE board and support emerging arts administrators and scholars.
Statement of Interest:
The Association of Arts Administration Educators has been a valuable resource for me as a student in building my professional career in arts administration. Within my experience with the AAAE and the field of the creative industry, I want to represent the voices of students, reflecting their needs and challenges, and contribute to the global expansion of arts administration while supporting emerging arts administrators and scholars.
I have earned a master's degree in arts management and am currently enrolled in the Ph.D. program in arts administration, education, and policy. Additionally, I majored in studio arts during both high school and undergraduate programs. This educational background has provided me with a profound understanding of the needs and challenges faced by students as they pursue their careers in the arts. During my search for arts administration programs in the United States, I encountered a lack of resources. I had no one in my immediate circle who had studied in this field, compelling me to heavily rely on the available resources on the internet, including those provided by AAAE. Recognizing the importance of such resources, I have consistently guided international students, leveraging AAAE materials to help them identify schools that align with their aspirations.
In light of these experiences, I am motivated to contribute to the AAAE Board of Directors at this time. By serving in this capacity, I aim to leverage my unique perspective and insights to further enhance the association’s ability to address the evolving needs of students in arts administration. I am committed to fostering a supportive environment for emerging arts administrators, scholars, and international students, thereby contributing to the continued growth and excellence of arts administration education globally.
Biography:
Jovan Osborne is a Master of Arts Administration student at Florida State University where he also serves on the College of Fine Arts Leadership Council and has previously served as the arts administration graduate liaison to faculty. Jovan is the Education Manager and Interim Director of the Grove Museum in Tallahassee, Florida. Prior to his current role, Jovan was selected to be a summer intern with The Metropolitan Opera where he worked in the DEI Department. During his time interning with the Met Opera, he created DEI training focusing on cultural competency and building a more inclusive work environment. Jovan is deeply passionate about meaning making opportunities and community engagement. His current research interest is in exploring the use of artistic narrative for DEI training to build knowledge and empathy. Jovan intends to serve and support the board in its vision of developing and supporting effective, responsive, and proactive arts administrators who reflect the communities they serve.
Statement of Interest:
I am interested in serving the AAAE Board of Directors as a student representative to contribute my experience as a student leader, gain notable experience serving a board of my profession, and support the AAAE’s vision of developing and supporting effective, responsive, and proactive arts administrators. In my current graduate arts administration program at FSU, I have served as a representative for my graduate colleagues as the liaison during faculty meetings. I have also represented my department of Art Education in the College of Fine Arts Leadership Council. These experiences support my commitment to an inclusive, equitable, and resilient learning and environment for all students. I believe that being a member of the AAAE board will further distinguish my commitment to this charge. Additionally, I would like the opportunity to connect with other arts administrators and educators to explore creative ways to support effective professional development for arts administrators.
Biography:
I am a communications and public relations major with extensive experience in education, youth work, and project management. Being an art enthusiast and exploring various spheres of art (film, photography, music, installations, fine art) led me to focus on the management side of it, as I encountered a lot of issues in conveying correctly formulated messages and being audience-centric in arts management. When I was 18, I founded "Pathway to" Inclusive Society Development NGO, aiming to provide equal educational, social, and cultural opportunities for everyone through the arts. It's always been my goal to become a bridge between the arts and audiences and make art accessible and widely consumed. I believe in the immense power of the arts and wish to change the societal perception of contemporary art and artists by revealing its entire potential for making a social change. I am more than excited to bring my leadership, communications, and arts management skills, experience working in social impact programs, passion for education, and willingness to have a more inclusive and equal society to the board. As a board member, I aim to foster an inclusive and collaborative environment, ensuring that AAAE continues to be a dynamic hub for arts management educators. I bring dedication, fresh perspectives, and a proactive approach to serving on the AAAE board. I am particularly passionate about promoting international perspectives in arts education, and I intend to bring this focus to the board. My ongoing research project aligns with AAAE's commitment to excellence, and I am excited about the prospect of actively contributing to the organization's initiatives.
Statement of Interest:
I am excited to express my interest in joining the AAAE board, motivated by my previous engagement and deepened connection with the organization. Having served as a graduate standards fellow with AAAE and worked closely with Ximena, I've gained invaluable insights into the organization's dynamics and activities. This experience fueled my desire to further contribute and participate in the rich tapestry of events and initiatives organized by AAAE. Attending the AAAE conference in 2023 proved transformative for me. Engaging in presentations and expanding my professional network significantly broadened my horizons. This firsthand experience underscored the significance of AAAE in fostering connections among professionals and cultivating an environment ripe for shared learning and growth. Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of contributing to the vibrant AAAE community and being an advocate for arts management education.
Tiffany Bourgeois (Institutional Member)
Biography:
Tiffany Bourgeois is an Assistant Professor of Arts Management in the Department of Arts Administration, Education and Policy at Ohio State University. Bourgeois earned both her PhD in arts administration, education and policy and master’s degree in arts policy and administration at Ohio State. She served as Audience Development Director of the Ensemble Theatre in Houston, Texas. Her scholarly work is grounded in cultural policy, cultural diplomacy, soft power, and mega- events. Specifically, she examines the relationship between the cultural programming of sports mega-events, cultural organizations, cultural legacy, and changes in perception. Bourgeois’ most recent publication can be found in Place Branding and Public Diplomacy, Visual Inquiry: Learning and Teaching, and American Journal of Arts Management.
Statement of Interest:
It is with great interest that I nominate myself to continue to serve on the Association of Arts Administration Educators (AAAE) board. As a board member, I would like to continue to help AAAE fulfill its mission to support arts administration education faculty and serve as a hub for knowledge. I have had the privilege to serve on the board development committee, the international committee and represent AAAE as an International Correspondent for ENCATC (European network on cultural management policy) and experienced the organization’s impact on the field. Each role has allowed me to embody the vision where arts administrators steward the arts and culture and reflect the communities they serve. In my previous position on the development committee, I had the opportunity to interview and advocate on behalf of other arts administration educators whose experience and expertise have enabled the field the grow. My participation on the international committee reflected the shared commitment to expanding AAAE’s impact abroad through collaborative programming like Global Conversations. Also, my role as an international correspondent to ENCATC have helped the committee achieve its goals through international exchange.
As an assistant professor of arts management at The Ohio State University, my research focuses on cultural diplomacy and cultural institution engagement with sports mega-events. At Ohio State, I have the pleasure of teaching courses like Arts Participation, Cultural Literacy and Audience Development; Introduction to Arts Management; and Management of Non-profit Arts Organizations that foster student critical thinking skills and actively engage pedagogical approaches that address systemic issues. I believe my scholarly, teaching and administrative experiences make me a strong candidate for this role. Specifically, the diversity of my experiences as a current board member and assistant professor exemplifies AAAE’s role as a convener, a resource, and an advocate for formal arts administration education.
Destyni Green (Individual Member)
Biography:
Destyni Green, a versatile visual artist and accomplished arts administrator hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, brings a unique blend of creativity and administrative expertise to the arts landscape. Holding a BFA in Sculpture and Expanded Media with a concentration in creative writing from the Cleveland Institute of Art, as well as a Master's in Art Administration from the University of Kentucky, Destyni has cultivated a rich educational background. With over six years of experience in arts administration, Destyni has honed a diverse skill set encompassing marketing and communications, educational programming, operations, JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion) strategies, and arts scholarship development. Her dedication to promoting equity and inclusion in the arts is evident through her role as the Association of Art Administration Educators (AAAE) student board member from 2021 to 2023. During this period, she actively contributed to the EDI Taskforce and Student Affinity committees, showcasing her commitment to advancing diversity in the field. Destyni's administrative prowess is further underscored by her notable achievements, including co-planning the inaugural Women's Perspectives in Arts Administration Symposium and presenting at the esteemed Social Theory, Politics, and the Arts Conference in 2023. Beyond her administrative endeavors, Destyni is a practicing visual artist with a multidisciplinary approach that spans textiles, ceramics, printmaking, and poetry. Notably, she curated the virtual outdoor sculpture tour, "Art in our Midst: African American Sculptors to Know," gaining recognition on the Emmy award-winning arts show Broad and High. In her dual roles as administrator and artist, Destyni places a strong emphasis on equitable leadership and amplifying the voices of POC (People of Color) artists, students, and community creatives. Her commitment to fostering inclusivity is evident through her involvement as a student member of the Cleveland Institute of Art's Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, and Awareness (IDEA) Council and her active participation in the Cleveland Institute of Arts Alumni Council. Through her achievements and dedication, Destyni Green continues to make a significant impact on the intersection of art, administration, and social change.
Statement of Interest:
I am writing to express my strong interest in maintaining my position on the Association of Art Administration Educators (AAAE) Board. From 2021 - 2023, I served as the student board member for AAAE, which has been a personally fulfilling and professionally enriching role. While serving on the board, I exercised my administrative experience and student perspectives while serving on the EDI Task Force committee and Student Affinity group, both of which brought extreme value to my administrative practice. Being on the board has given me the unique and vital opportunity to see, assess, and act upon the historical and current developments of the field. This greatly influenced the topics I approached and highlighted during my time as a student in my masters program. Overall, serving on the board has been a wonderful experience full of community building, critical conversations, and progressive leadership. As a versatile visual artist and accomplished arts administrator, I am committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts. If allowed to continue serving on the board, I would like to continue working with the organization in ways that align with my efforts toward EDI, equitable leadership, and scholarship development. I have recently graduated with my Masters in Art Administration from the University of Kentucky and do not plan on applying to the Ph.D. program until 2025; having the opportunity to continue serving on the board will allow me to stay active within the field while also fueling the fire that is my dedication to the arts.
