Message from the President, Richard H. Otto

First, I want to congratulate our students for their flexibility in changing from face-to-face to remote instruction due to the Coronavirus.  It was challenging but fortunately with commitment we were able to finish the spring 2020 semester on time.

Secondly, our faculty was outstanding in organizing and recreating their curriculum for delivery remotely.  The Academy’s community was able to complete their course work for the semester and candidates for graduation were successful in completing their requirements.

The Academy will continue to make every effort to ensure a safe environment for students, faculty and staff in order that students can continue their education and earn their Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree.

Under the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act), the Academy received funds from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) to provide grants to students related to the disruption of campus operations due to COVID-19.

We are undergoing difficult and unprecedented times—this will pass as we develop new and innovative ways of delivering instruction in a collaborating effort.  The faculty and staff remain committed to seeing students achieve their creative and artistic goals. 

I look forward to a successful and safe 2020-2021 academic year.