Rhonda Matheison
Chief Financial Officer
High Museum of Art, Atlanta
I joined the High Museum of Art in April of 1993, following 16 years in the corporate sector. In my current role as CFO, I am responsible for ensuring that the Museum operates annually within budget, as well as overseeing administration activities. I am also the “Founding Mother” of our nationally recognized annual David C. Driskell Prize.
It is a privilege and honor to work in the Museum Field. Working in an environment that provides art and education that positively impacts stakeholders, visitors and the larger community is an extraordinary opportunity. For women pursuing a career in the arts, I highly recommend joining an affinity group like those offered through the American Alliance of Museums. This organization provides an opportunity to meet other like-minded professionals with similar goals and objectives. It is an invaluable group that provides a collaborative network of national colleagues who are willing to share their goals, challenges and successes.
Additionally, I strongly recommend continuing professional development and securing a confidential mentor with whom you can discuss challenges and opportunities.
Dr. Audra Pittman
Vice President, SCAD Atlanta
My greatest piece of advice is to be open to the world of possibility that surrounds you. Creativity involves imagination, curiosity, passion, change, and innovation. Embrace every opportunity that comes your way, and work, intern, or volunteer in numerous areas of the arts that inspire you. Understand that you can have a plan, and it's perfectly okay for that plan to change. After all, life is a journey. The beauty of a career in the arts is in realizing that your mind will constantly be stimulated and energized by the imagination of others. You never know who you'll meet, what kind of knowledge you'll gain. Remember, you are a brand as an artist, designer, or creative professional. Everything you produce has the potential to make a lasting impact on others. I can't wait to see what your future holds!