Hannah Rich graduated from Princeton University in 2011 with a BA in Medieval History and a certificate in Theater and Dance. Prior to joining the Arts Administration program, she was a dancer with the Joffrey Ballet Concert Group in New York City where she also worked as the Executive Assistant to the Artistic Director. Currently, Hannah is interning at New York City Ballet in business strategy and development.  Hannah is interested in executive leadership of dance companies.

What attracted you to the Arts Administration Program at Teachers College, Columbia University? The ARAD Program was an excellent fit for me for many reasons. First, it is located in New York City, one of the arts capitals of the world. Second, it recognizes the vast array of skills necessary to be a successful arts administrator. It does this by offering a comprehensive curriculum that takes advantage of the excellent resources of Columbia University, such as the business school and the law school. Third, it supports the collaboration of performing and visual arts administrators by placing them in the same room.

How are your studies helping to advance your career goals? Through my coursework, I am developing a strong foundation in areas vital to the arts, including but not limited to marketing, development, finance, and education. I also have access to expert mentors in the field who challenge me to think innovatively and strategically. Furthermore, since I am particularly interested in executive leadership of arts organizations, being able to take classes in the Columbia Business School has been invaluable.

Describe student life as a member of the ARAD community. The ARAD community is great. The nature of a small cohort allows for a close-knit group and supportive environment. There are plenty of opportunities to get together in and out of school, through happy hours and events such as the Distinguished Speaker Series. My favorite part, however, is all the group outings we plan to different arts events throughout the city. It is a great way for us to share our diverse interests with each other.