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Brooke Boertzel
Director of Education and Engagement at McCarter Theatre Center
Brooke Boertzel is a highly accomplished education professional with a remarkable blend of experience in nonprofit organizations, program management, curricula development, grant writing, public speaking, and workshop facilitation. With a profound commitment to the intersection of education and the arts, Brooke has made significant contributions to the landscape of educational theatre, enriching the lives of countless students and educators alike. Her career spans various esteemed organizations, where she has held pivotal roles that harness her skills and passion for fostering creativity and learning.
Professional Background
Brooke serves as the Director of Education and Engagement at the renowned McCarter Theatre Center, where she plays a vital role in developing educational programs that engage communities and inspire young minds through the power of the performing arts. Her leadership at McCarter Theatre Center showcases her strength in nonprofit management and program development, facilitating impactful learning experiences that bridge artistic expression and educational growth.
Prior to this role, Brooke was a Curriculum Specialist and Consultant at the New York City Children's Theater. Here, she deftly crafted and implemented curricula designed to integrate theatre into learning settings, enhancing student learning outcomes through innovative programming. This experience further solidified her expertise in developing educational resources that are both engaging and educational.
Her extensive background includes serving as the Director of Education at New York City Children's Theater, where she was instrumental in creating dynamic educational initiatives that promote accessibility to the arts for diverse audiences. Brooke's role involved collaboration with educators and artists to design programs that are inclusive and community-centered, emphasizing the importance of the arts as a vital component of education.
Previously, Brooke was part of the NYC Arts in Education Roundtable, an organization dedicated to promoting effective and sustainable arts education. Her experience here provided her with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the field of arts education, further enriching her approach to program management.
Additionally, her early career included various roles at McCarter Theatre, such as Teaching Artist, Student Matinee Coordinator, and Intern. These foundational experiences honed her abilities in teaching and engagement through the arts, providing her with a unique perspective on how to connect with students effectively and inspire them.
Moreover, Brooke's talents extend beyond education and into the performing arts, having worked as a Voice Actor and Producer. This experience lends a creative edge to her educational programming, ensuring that it is not only pedagogically sound but also vibrant and engaging for students and educators alike.
Education and Achievements
Brooke Boertzel has an impressive educational background that underscores her expertise in educational theatre and the arts. She earned her Master of Arts (M.A.) in Educational Theatre from New York University, a program renowned for its commitment to the innovative teaching of theatre in educational contexts. This degree equipped her with the pedagogical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to create meaningful learning experiences through theatre.
Additionally, Brooke holds a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) from the Actors Studio Drama School at The New School. This prestigious program focuses on developing the artistic and technical skills essential for performance, allowing her to blend her creative background with her educational endeavors seamlessly.
Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Creative Writing and Theatre from Northern Michigan University. This multidisciplinary foundation has proven invaluable in her career, providing her with strong communication skills and a deep understanding of narrative and performance - which she applies to her work in education.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Brooke has consistently driven positive change in the sphere of arts education. Her initiatives have not only impacted the organizations she has been a part of but have also inspired educators and students, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts.
As a grant writer, Brooke has successfully secured funding for various educational programs, showcasing her skills in articulating the importance of arts education to funders and stakeholders. Her commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for students through the arts has led to numerous successful projects that enrich the learning environment.
Moreover, Brooke is an accomplished public speaker and workshop facilitator. She engages audiences with her passion for educational theatre and its impact on learning, having delivered impactful presentations at several conferences and professional development workshops. Her ability to communicate effectively has positioned her as a thought leader in the field of arts education, promoting innovative practices that educators can implement in their classrooms.
In conclusion, Brooke Boertzel exemplifies the intersection of art and education through her impressive career. With extensive expertise in nonprofit management, program development, and curriculum design, she is dedicated to nurturing the next generation's love for the arts. Her contributions to educational theatre continue to shape the landscape of arts education, making her an invaluable asset to any organization fortunate enough to collaborate with her.