Featured MACAA Member Arts Administrator - Martha Greer

An email interview with Martha Greer, Director of the Center for Community Arts, Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph, MO.

1.Name, Organizations, Position, Location:

Martha Greer, Director of the Center for Community Arts, Missouri Western State University, St. Joseph MO

2.How long have you been with your organization?

Almost 2 years.

3.How did you start in the arts?

My parents encouraged my love of the arts from a very young age.I have my first sketchbook, which I got when I was three years old filled with drawings by both me and my dad.There are also videos of me doing a mean Mae West impersonation at about the same age.

In elementary school, I loved art in school, but my mom also found opportunities for me to participate in art classes offered throughout the community, which I loved.

I continued to participate in both dramatic and visual arts throughout high school and majored in art in college.

4.What is the most rewarding part of your position or your most favorite program?

In my job I manage a program that offers arts and cultural enrichment classes and programs for all ages.I really enjoy developing new classes that appeal to a wide variety of individuals.I also really enjoy forming new partnerships and working with other organizations.

I have to say that the most rewarding part of my job last year was being awarded a first time MAC grant for our Griffon Junior Singers, which is a children's choral music program.They were subsequently invited to rehearse & perform with the Kansas City Symphony and KC Symphony Chorus which was a fantastic opportunity and experience for the kids and the Directors.

5.Are you an artist?If so, what type of art?

I am a visual artist and work in acrylic.

Additional comments:

In addition, Martha Greer currently serves as MACAA's Board as Vice President. She also is a member of the United Way of Greater St. Joseph, Success by Six Parent Education Team, St. Joseph Performing Arts Association, Board of Directors Missouri Citizens for the Arts, Board of Directors Missouri Humanities Council.