It is always rewarding to see the impact of a program long after graduation. In the case of our Arts Management program, we are proud to share that a group of our graduates, including Kelsey Muldoon (class of 2018) and Nipun Kudalkar (class of 2021), have found themselves working together at the National Ballet of Canada, helping demonstrate the program's strength and the interconnectedness that our graduates have as they leave our classrooms and enter the industry together.
“The National Ballet of Canada is lucky to be working with these talented graduates,” says Richard Lefebvre, Associate Director, Individual and Legacy Giving at The National Ballet of Canada and Instructor in our Arts Management program.
“What I find fascinating and speaks to the calibre of Centennial College's Arts Management Program is that each are focused in different areas in fundraising. Kelsey, as Donor Advisor, Strategic Giving and Foundations, works in the Major Gifts team, inspiring individuals and foundations to give $25,000 or more annually to the National Ballet; Nipun, as Officer, Prospect Research identifies and qualifies individuals, foundations, and corporations who may be interested in supporting the Ballet,” he says.
Richard has been involved in the Arts Management program since its inception; in 2013, he was part of the Ad Hoc Advisory Committee that helped develop the Graduate Certificate program, joined the professional advisory committee, and, in 2019, started teaching in the program.
He shares, “I believe that the Arts Management Program truly prepares students for a career in the arts sector. Every student takes away an appreciation of all the moving parts of working in arts and culture organizations and provides them with the language, understanding, and foundational knowledge to get them off in their careers.”
He continues, “My favourite part about teaching in the program is following the program graduates in their chosen careers. Regardless of the career path that they choose within the Arts Management sector, I follow and celebrate their career development.”
As both an instructor in the program and working directly with the program's graduates, Richard has been able to shape the material he delivers to his students to ensure they are equipped with the skillset and knowledge required for success. He explains, "As an Instructor, having Centennial College Arts Management program graduates allows me to have continual conversations on what their knowledge gaps were when entering their chosen profession as professional fundraisers. With these conversations, I am able to continually update my lectures and lesson plans to ensure that the students have the best possible foundation to jump-start their careers.
Nipun, who currently works as Officer, Prospect Research at the National Ballet of Canada, shares, “Working alongside Arts Management graduates has been a truly enriching experience for me. It is a testament to the enduring impact of the Art Management program that we, as alumni, have the opportunity to work together at the National Ballet of Canada. The presence of fellow graduates in my workplace has undeniably contributed positively to the work I do and the overall environment in which we operate.”
Nipun acknowledges the impact having a shared educational background has, as he shares, "We have all been exposed to the same comprehensive curriculum, learning from esteemed professors such as Richard, who has now become our esteemed colleague.” He continues, "The knowledge and skills we acquired during our studies serve as a common foundation that enables us to communicate effectively, understand each other's perspectives, and approach our work with a shared sense of purpose."
A sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding are just some of the elements Nipun points out that have stemmed from this shared education, and he notes that he and his colleagues can relate to each other’s experiences, challenges, and aspirations, resulting in a supportive work environment. “The bond that comes from being part of the same program creates a strong sense of unity and a shared commitment to excellence in arts management,” he says.
He adds, “I am particularly grateful for the ongoing mentorship and guidance provided by Richard, who not only served as our professor but also remains an invaluable resource and inspiration in our professional journeys. His continued presence and willingness to share his expertise contribute to our ongoing learning and development as arts management professionals.”
Despite graduating from separate cohorts, Nipun highlights that multiple graduates working alongside each other serves as a compelling testament to the opportunities that await current Arts Management students. “It reflects the dedication and expertise of the professors who are not solely focused on teaching theoretical concepts, but also on preparing students to thrive and excel in their future careers,” he explains.
From classrooms to colleagues, we are thrilled to see the ambition and strong sense of collaboration among these graduates extend from the Arts Management program into their roles today.
Check out part one of this Arts Management series: Arts Management Q&A with Program Coordinator Rebecca Peirson.
Article by: Alexandra Few
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