Graduating Class (Year): 2021

What you are up to now?

I currently work at the LA Philharmonic in the Senior Coordinator, Gift Planning position. The LA Phil presents programming at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, the Judith and Thomas L. Beckmen YOLA Center, and the Ford. I work directly with legacy donors who put these organizations in their will or other estate plans. 

What led you into arts management?

I’ve always been passionate about music performance and musical theatre. My entire life has been shaped by my involvement in the arts. I knew that I wanted to work on the “other side” of the arts but didn’t have much knowledge or expertise to propel me there. I found UB’s Arts Management program which provided a well-rounded education in becoming an arts manager. I’m so grateful for that experience! 

Most memorable experience in the Program?

I participated in a class called “Managing Arts Spaces,” which I now view as the most important class in my graduate school education. For this class, students were placed on one of four teams (community engagement, development, marketing, organizational strategy), and I worked in conjunction with the Alleyway Theatre on the development team. I gained hands-on experience in the development realm, learned how much cross-over there is between departments in the nonprofit space, and realized how much I enjoy development. I owe my involvement in this class to the shape of my early career path. 

What do you wish you knew then that you know now?

When your professors tell you that as an arts manager you’ll “wear many different hats,” believe them! Arts departments are extremely interconnected. Even though I work specifically in development, I work very closely with the marketing department, too. That’s why it’s important to get a well-rounded education like the one I received through UB’s Arts Management program.

Advice for current/prospective students?

Take advantage of every opportunity you can while still in school. Having a master’s degree in arts management will open doors, but it is also equally important to take advantage of experiential learning opportunities. Be proactive about your education and absorb all that you can.