Center for Arts-Inspired Learning Names Emma Parker as New CEO: A Trailblazer in Arts Education Leadership
Center for Arts-Inspired Learning Names Emma Parker as New CEO: A Trailblazer in Arts Education Leadership
Emma Parker (above)
Photo by: Liz Baumgartner
CLEVELAND, Ohio (May 13, 2024) - The Center for Arts-Inspired Learning (CAL) proudly announces the appointment of Emma Parker as its new Chief Executive Officer. With a dynamic background in arts education and a passion for innovation, Parker is poised to lead CAL into its next chapter of growth and impact.
Emma Parker's journey with CAL began in 2012 as an independent teaching artist before ascending to the role of Resident Teaching Artist in 2016 to lead CAL’s first full time staff of artists. Then in 2021, she moved into her current role as Senior Director of Arts Education to lead the programs department. During her tenure, Parker demonstrated exceptional leadership in envisioning and executing groundbreaking programs that enriched the lives of students across Northeast Ohio.
Her strategic leadership achievements at CAL include:
• Envisioning and spearheading the creation of the organization’s innovative, multi-artistic, kindergarten-readiness program—called CAL Sprouts—which enriches the cognitive, physical, and social-emotional development of preschool and kindergarten students.
• Cultivating relationships with artists and educators across Northeast Ohio through training in arts integration, curriculum development, inclusive programming, and behavior/classroom management.
• Collaborating with CAL’s development and education teams to support grant writing, fundraising, and earned-income revenue efforts.
Before joining CAL, Parker made significant contributions to the field as a professional dancer and school coordinator for Dancing Wheels Company & School, where she championed inclusive dance and creative arts education. Armed with a Master of Arts degree in special education and a Bachelor of Arts degree in dance and psychology from Ball State University, Parker brings a wealth of expertise and passion to her new role.
Chris Howse, Board Chair of the Center for Arts-Inspired Learning, expressed full confidence in Parker's ability to lead the organization forward: "Emma's vision and growth mindset have helped CAL form and build significant partnerships, vastly expanding our reach and impact in the community. Her track record of leadership, collaboration, and innovation is exemplary."
Parker's appointment follows the departure of Sheffia Randall-Nickerson, CAL's outgoing CEO, who will transition to the role of Chief Engagement and Collaboration Officer at University Circle, Inc. (UCI) at the end of May. Both organizations anticipate new opportunities for collaboration and community service through these changes. "I am beyond excited for CAL’s next chapter with Emma at the helm. Her passion for arts education and community engagement, along with her steady business sense, will propel the organization through its new strategic plan and programmatic initiatives!” says Randall-Nickerson. “Emma has been an invaluable thought partner and collaborator in the development and growth of the organization. I eagerly anticipate our continued collaboration as partnering organizations, championing the arts for the surrounding community. This is a bright day for CAL.”
Parker states "I'm thrilled and honored to step into the CEO role, a culmination of nine years of dedication to this incredible organization. My journey here has been nothing short of inspiring, and I'm eager to continue our legacy by championing inclusive arts education, steering CAL towards a future brimming with creativity, diversity, and boundless opportunities."
About the Center for Arts-Inspired Learning (CAL)
The Center for Arts-Inspired Learning (CAL) has a rich legacy dating back to 1953 as Young Audiences of Greater Cleveland, founded by George Szell. For 70 years, CAL has been a pioneer in championing creative learning and leading arts education across 18 counties. With a focus to drive educational innovation, we engage approximately 50 professional teaching artists in dance, theater, music, digital arts, visual arts while constantly adding new art forms to our selection. Our programs integrate the arts into academic, cognitive, social-emotional, personal, and professional growth, providing well-rounded experiences for youth from preschool to 12th grade. CAL ensures arts education continues at every developmental stage, empowering youth to pursue dreams, build skills, and thrive in school and beyond. Its four primary service platforms include:
Arts-integrated programs (PreK-12th grade students) created to instill the arts in learning through in-person and virtual classes offered by educators, schools, libraries, community organizations, and other venues.
ArtWorks arts education and workforce development apprenticeships (10th-12th grade students).
Inspiration Through Music programs (3rd-12th grade students living in Cleveland or attending a school within the Cleveland Metropolitan School District) offering beginner-to-intermediate instrument instruction and free instruments upon successful completion of the program.
Professional Development for educators looking to integrate art into their teaching practices and artists preparing to positively impact students as teachers.
CAL’s mission is to champion creative learning, drive educational innovation, and transform lives through collaborative efforts involving teaching artists, students, educators, and communities.