As part of this month’s NOW x Humber Digital Residency, we’re profiling faculty and alumni from the Humber community. See all of the profiles here.
What program did you take at Humber?
I’m a graduate of the Arts Administration and Cultural Management program.
What is your industry role?
Development officer, foundations at the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.
What’s one skill students looking to enter your field absolutely must know?
I’ve learned that communication skills are so important! Not only are they essential to networking effectively and building relationships, but practitioners need to know how to clearly express their ideas when working with colleagues and clients. If you can’t communicate well within your own team or across departments, you could potentially delay or jeopardize a project. Similarly, you need to know how to communicate well with those outside your organization, especially (in my case) donors and audience members.
What is the most memorable experience you’ve had working or learning at Humber?
The internship component of my program was by far the most memorable as it provided me the opportunity to try out my newly-acquired skills and really gain a foothold in the industry. I met great people, a number of whom I now consider close friends or mentors.
Describe something that inspires you about your industry.
The arts industry employs creative problem-solvers, which means we are resilient and able to adjust to changing conditions. I am always inspired by how fiercely the community can champion a cause and push the boundaries of the status quo.
The internet and digital technology have upended many creative arts disciplines. How does your Humber program prepare arts professionals for these challenges?
In my program, we learned about all the elements required in running a successful arts organization. By being aware of these elements, and how they influence one another, we are better able to respond to changes as they occur. Whether that be using new media channels to better engage patrons or using technology to inform artistic practice. We can’t run from technology but we can learn to embrace it and use it to our advantage.
What’s your favourite Toronto festival?
It’s so hard to choose! We are lucky to have so many festivals in this city. I tend to gravitate to the festivals that pique my curiosity like Hot Docs or IFOA, but I’ve also been known to treat myself during Summerlicious because it happens so close to my birthday.
Name a person or organization in your industry who is doing work that you find innovative or inspiring.
I am proud to sit on the board of Cahoots Theatre and I’m constantly inspired by the work that they do. The organization is committed to providing a place for marginalized artists and diverse communities to share their stories. These stories deserve to be seen and heard, and the arts community is made stronger by their inclusion.
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