Message from the President

Dear Idyllwild Arts Community,

Happy New School Year! As we welcome our students back to campus, we do so with the excitement that only a new year can usher in. This past weekend our students bounded onto campus with great anticipation to reconnect with friends, meet new teachers and roommates, and connect with other talented young artists who have chosen Idyllwild Arts Academy to pursue their passions in the arts.

As schools and organizations across the country grapple with hiring shortages, we are pleased to start the school year with several new faculty and staff members who possess the professional expertise and experience necessary to provide the education that IAA students expect and deserve. Hailing from many parts of the world, these educators, artists, and administrators are eager to meet our students and support them in their quests as young artists. Our Interim Head of School, Craig N. Sellers, has struck the perfect tone by establishing Cultivating Connection, Community and Joy as the themes for the year. The joy is palpable.

We look forward to welcoming even more staff into our Idyllwild Arts family soon. With the support of a generous, anonymous benefactor, we are expanding our Human Resources Department to include a Director of People and Culture (formerly HR Director), Assistant Director of Human Resources, Director of DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging) and Community Engagement, and an Assistant Director of DEIB. These added positions are essential as we continue building a community of respect that is inclusive and equitable for everyone.

In the coming weeks, we will announce the implementation of our Strategic Impact Plan, including our plans to launch 1) The Institute for Teaching & Learning, 2) The Center for Creativity & Social Entrepreneurship, and 3) The Native American Arts Center, expanding upon our current Native American Arts Program. We look forward to advancing our mission beyond the borders of Idyllwild and reaching learners across the generations.

We are grateful to the hundreds of parents who allow us to play a role in their child’s education each year. It’s a privilege to have a front row seat to watch these students develop – artistically, academically and personally. I invite those of you who are able to join us for many of the performances, readings and art exhibitions we have planned. I know first-hand that you, too, will feel joy.

Pamela