Q: Where did you grow up? Were there any activities you did as a child that led to you to be involved with the arts?
A: I was born and raised in Valdosta, Georgia- As south as you can get before you hit Florida.
I grew up in the arts. I have been dancing since I was three years old- everything from classical Ballet to Modern and Hip-hop. My mom was a ballet dancer and later taught high school drama. My brother John Michael went to North Carolina School of the Arts for High School and now is a professional dancer with the Trey McIntyre Project. My brother David is a musician and my stepmother Marti is an opera singer. In my family you are either an artist or a serious supporter. I was born into an artistic family and with their support I have been lucky to stay connected with the arts.
Q: Where did you go to school? How did this prepare you for your work in the arts?
A: I attended the University of Georgia. While in school I continued to dance by taking dance classes through the University’s amazing dance program and through performing with student dance organizations and Greek Life.
I graduated with a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with an emphasis in Child and Family Development. That may sound a little off for someone in my position, but I think the degree taught me a lot about people and how they think and live. I think this an essential skill to have in the non-profit world. It’s all about relationships when it comes to creating and sustaining a successful non-profit.
Q: Describe briefly your position at Charleston Stage and what your job involves?
A: At Charleston Stage I am the Development Assistant. I process contributions. I handle Business Memberships, Director’s Circle Memberships, Education Sponsorships, and Show Sponsorships. I also help plan the Director’s Circle Opening Night Galas, as well as, our Annual Gala in the Fall and the Spring fundraiser.
Q: What were some of your past jobs/experiences in the arts?
A: Since I was 16 I have taught dance to children ages 2 to 14. In 2009 I came to Charleston for my last semester of college and to partake in an internship with the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs. After my internship ended, I was lucky enough to stay on for the Piccolo Spoleto Festival where I became the Outreach Coordinator for the festival. Later I was hired as the Marketing/Development Assistant and Ticketing Coordinator for Piccolo 2010. I soon became the Assistant to the Director, Internship Coordinator, and Lowcountry Quarterly Arts Grant Coordinator. I think the experience I received with the Office of Cultural Affairs more than prepared me for my future in the arts and especially in my role as Development Assistant with Charleston Stage.
Q: What do you do in your spare time?
A: As I mentioned earlier, I have been dancing since I was three. I currently dance with Dancefx, a local non-profit dance company that performs many times a year around Charleston and the Southeast. It’s a good way to stay active and have fun at the same time. When I am not dancing, I love to experience all Charleston has to offer, the food, the shopping, and the water. I am so lucky to live in such an amazing city.