Chatting with Anna Graham
This week, we were able to connect with Anna Graham (C '90) and discuss her career path after graduating from Sewanee. Enjoy!
What year did you graduate from Sewanee?
1990
Did you have any internships during your time at Sewanee? If so, what were they?
While at Sewanee, my work study was in the slide library and in the University Gallery. After 2nd year, I secured an internship with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Arts Council. My mentor involved me in every aspect of the work (it was a small shop after all!) and I was able to gain a broad experience and developed relations in the local arts agency community. The next summer, I returned to the Coast and interned at a newly created site campus of the Mississippi Museum of Art. Within a few days, the director resigned, and my mentor from the previous summer (who had helped bring the site museum to the Coast) connected me with the Executive Director and I was named Interim Director for the summer! There was a staff of two: myself and the security guard, and lots of volunteers. I was involved in every aspect of managing, marketing and promoting the museum, as well as organizing summer art camps. It was overwhelming at times, but through building relationships and making connections, I was able to make it work and it was a fantastic experience!
What made you decide to major in Art History?
I came to college very open minded about a major, because I have always been interested in many subjects. There wasn't just one thing I was interested in- I like seeing the connections between ideas and concepts. When I took my first survey class, it helped me see that connections can and should be made through art, as it influences - and is influenced by- what is happening at the time in the world. Throughout time, society's impact from religion, wars, society, politics- are all illustrated through art.
What was your favorite art history course you took at Sewanee?
I can't name just one- I loved every one of them! I think I took every one offered.
Where did you go after graduating? What’s your story postgrad?
Originally my plan was to attend George Washington University for post grad and was offered an unpaid internship at the Smithsonian. However, as a Pell Grant student, I realized that this was going to be cost prohibitive and I wasn't willing to carry the student load debt. And, for the first time in my life, I didn't reach out to professors and mentors at Sewanee to inquire about ways to help fund the internship or even connect with alumni in the area (this was pre-social media, after all- and broad use of the internet was just around the corner)- even though I was a phonathon caller with the Development Officer and on the Career Services Student Advisory Board!
So, I pivoted, applying for a Tonya Internship and working for the Mississippi Arts Commission, during an exciting and challenging time in the arts world as the American with Disabilities Act had just been passed, and at the same time, there was the first modern major funding crisis in the arts at a national level as the National Endowment for the Arts was in crisis. I was able to gain experience in working with government and community agencies that summer. Through connections made at the Arts Commission, I attended and graduated from the University of New Orleans with a Masters in Arts Administration. Upon graduating I actually came to work at Sewanee in the Development Office, and pivoted into a career in development in higher education for several years. When my husband and I had children, I went back to school, earning a degree in counseling and was a school counselor for many years. Last year I returned to higher education and now am the Dean of a site campus at Pellissippi State Community College.
Looking back, I see that my original interest in art history- sharing how art influences people and society- the connections that art creates between people and society-and that art can and should be for everyone- has been a big part of my life and career.
If you had to give one piece of advice to your college self, what would it be?
Study abroad and utilize student services as much as possible. College is not just classes and professors. There are plenty of people around who want to help and share their wisdom and life experiences.
What’s your favorite museum/ gallery/ exhibit/ work of art you’ve seen recently?
Because of where I live (East Tennessee) and because of my daughters who are active in preserving the arts, wisdom and culture of Appalachia, right now I am really into Appalachian Art and artists. I just purchased a larger than life Dolly Parton wall hanging created by my friend Amy Campbell, which is in my entry stairwell. She greets me every morning.
How has your art history major helped you in your daily life?
It informs and influences me throughout the day. I see the world through the lens of my experiences as an art history major. And, when I was a school counselor, I brought up my major all the time...especially when a parent would make a disparaging remark about majoring in the arts. I was quick to point out that my major in art history has served me well...and it can serve you well, too!
Thank you so much Anna for chatting with us about your post-graduate journey. Be on the lookout for another interview next week!