ARTS AND HEALING: UH ARTS LEADERSHIP GRADUATES MAKING A DIFFERENCE

The University of Houston's Arts Leadership program stands as a pioneering force, nurturing the next generation of creative professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit. This program, now celebrating a decade of excellence, takes a unique approach to prepare individuals to lead, manage, and invigorate arts organizations of all sizes.

While emerging as a beacon for aspiring arts professionals, the program has ignited transformative journeys for individuals like Caroline Docwra and Zachary Gresham. Their paths, while distinct, showcase the program's ability to nurture diverse talents and equip students with the skills needed for impactful careers in the arts.

Docwra's journey was serendipitous. Initially on the pre-med track as a biology major at UH, she discovered her passion for art through an elective art history class. Graduating in the midst of a recession, she volunteered at cultural institutions and worked in local theater, eventually finding her calling at the Houston Center for Photography (HCP).

“At HCP, I climbed the ranks and held positions such as director of exhibitions and programs, which I considered my dream job,” Docwra said. “However, my aspirations for career advancement prompted me to explore further options, as I lacked an upper-level degree required for certain roles.”

This realization—as well as a subsequent nudge from colleague Gresham—led her to the UH Arts Leadership program.

“It was during this period of contemplation that I learned about the Arts Leadership program at UH from my colleague Zachary,” Docwra said. “Intrigued, I met with Zachary to discuss the program, and I found it to be a perfect fit for my career goals.”

“This program offered a unique blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge essential for leadership roles in nonprofit organizations.”

Docwra said the program broadened her horizons, as well as challenged her preconceived notions about what a career in the arts entails.

“Working in Houston's photography community, I had initially believed my career options were limited, but this program shattered that misconception,” Docwra said.

“In essence, arts leadership, to me, signifies creating a nurturing space for artists to express themselves freely. Whether as an artist or an administrator, being a guiding force, facilitating artistic expression, and understanding and addressing the needs of various communities are essential elements of arts leadership.”

Docwra presently serves as a visual arts project specialist at the Center for Performing Arts Medicine at Houston Methodist. In this role, she is dedicated to the growth and enhancement of visual arts integration programs catering to employees, visitors, and patients. She also holds a lecturing position within the Arts Leadership program, where she specializes in teaching courses toward the program’s Arts and Health Certificate. Her instructional focus encompasses healthcare administration, policy, and research.

Gresham's journey was equally transformative. Initially pursuing a career in classical music, he later discovered an interest in the visual arts.

“During my time in school, I actively sought internships at various institutions, which led me to volunteer and intern at several museums,” Gresham said. “Surprisingly, I discovered a profound passion for the visual arts.”

This eventually led him to the Lawndale Art Center in Houston, and he soon embarked on a career that would take him to some of Houston’s premier arts organizations. It was during his tenure at Art League Houston that he first learned about the Arts Leadership program. Connecting with Fleurette Fernando, the program's director, fueled his curiosity.

“Meeting Fleurette, an incredibly energetic and magnetic individual, further piqued my interest in the program,” Gresham said. “Even in its early stages, the program exuded a close-knit, familial atmosphere that resonated with me. The flexibility of evening classes and the opportunity to balance work and further education were compelling factors.”

“Grad school had always been on my radar, but the timing had never been quite right, given my enjoyment of working. The Arts Leadership program offered the perfect balance I had been seeking.”

Gresham graduated in 2015, gaining insights into leadership and the importance of integrity, honesty, and vulnerability. The program's emphasis on creating cohesive teams rather than hierarchical structures resonated with him.

“The program's uniqueness lies in its departure from the typical US nomenclature of ‘arts administration,’” Gresham said. “While much of the coursework indeed aligns with the traditional framework of arts administration, what sets it apart is the emphasis on leadership.”

“In essence, it prompts self-reflection, compelling us to reevaluate our perceptions of leadership. Frequently, our notions of leadership fail to align with the qualities we truly desire in those who lead us. Thus, the curriculum encourages introspection, a critical component I found immensely valuable.”

Today, Gresham works as the arts in medicine program manager at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. In this role, he spearheads a dedicated team in helping to bring the healing power of the arts to pediatric patients and their families undergoing medical treatment. The program includes a wide array of engaging artistic disciplines, encompassing visual arts, music, theater, and dance. Through various activities, Gresham and his team empower patients, alleviate anxiety and discomfort, foster a sense of belonging within the hospital setting, and build a strong sense of community among patients and their families.

“My current role at the hospital involves extensive in-house programming, where we rely heavily on our internal resources while also collaborating with various arts organizations from across the city,” Gresham said. “What I didn't fully grasp when I enrolled in [the Arts Leadership program] is the extensive network of connections it facilitates.”

Not only are the instructors and the program itself composed of working arts professionals, but all the students in the program have gone on to work in arts organizations. So, when we seek partnerships with institutions like the Houston Ballet, I often turn to fellow alumni from the Arts Leadership program. I ask, ‘Do you know someone there who could be a valuable contact?’”

Docwra also believes the Arts Leadership program’s emphasis on networking and collaboration to be one of its key strengths. Specifically, she cites her relationship with Gresham as extremely beneficial to her career.

“My close relationship with Zachary has been instrumental in my journey. We met while working at HCP and have since followed similar career paths, supporting each other's growth in the arts field,” Docwra said. “Having a friend who understands the unique challenges and experiences of the arts has been invaluable.”

Reflecting on the program's 10-year journey, both Docwra and Gresham said its impact is undeniable, enriching careers and transforming lives across the arts landscape in Houston and beyond.

“Witnessing the exponential growth, with waves of graduates each semester—fall, spring, and summer—is nothing short of astounding,” Gresham said.

‘The program's growth has been inspiring, and every interaction with prospective students reminds me of its significance. Fleurette Fernando's leadership has been pivotal in shaping this program, which has the potential to broaden horizons and transform lives,” Docwra said.

“To think that this program, born from Fleurette's vision, has flourished over the past decade is truly remarkable. They're even hiring professors now, marking a significant achievement and milestone,” Gresham said.

“Seeing it transition from a mere concept in Fleurette's mind to a thriving institution over the course of a decade is nothing short of fantastic and amazing.”