Stephanie Small*
Executive Director, Free Arts of Arizona

Her Story

Having participated in National Arts Strategies (NAS) programs since 2002, Stephanie Small says that NAS "has completely changed the way we do everything."

As executive director of Free Arts of Arizona, a relatively "young" non-profit, Ms. Small says they have always had a strategic focus, but were only looking at the short term. After working one-on-one with an NAS consultant and attending numerous seminars along with her team, Ms. Small says their long-term strategic view is changing the way they plan for future growth. "NAS has been a catalyst that has brought the organization a much more strategic focus on organizational growth and sustainability."

For example, she describes an "aha" moment the team had while attending the NAS Strategy seminar and discussing competitive advantage. After coming to the conclusion that the Free Arts' staff was their main differentiator, the NAS instructor suggested reviewing their budget to ensure it was in line with this realization. As a result, they've been able to maintain a strong staff and to continue to invest in their people, which contributes to the success of their mission.

Ms. Small's success in putting the NAS principles to work also can be attributed to attending seminars with a team of staff and board. "I have made it a priority that as many staff should attend as possible," said Ms. Small. "For the cost, to get such high level teaching not available anywhere else, it's worth it."

In addition, Ms. Small has participated in the two-week EPNL-Arts program that inspired her to pursue an MBA. "That program made me feel, for the first time in my career, like a corporate CEO," said Ms. Small. "Spending quality time with other arts leaders from around the world with a focus on nonprofit management and being taught by the highest quality instructors was amazing. They did not dumb it down for us."

"When I go to an NAS program, I know it will be unbelievably challenging and thought-provoking," said Ms. Small. "They've spoiled me so much that now, every other workshop I go to now, pales in comparison."

Background

Free Arts of Arizona is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to spark the creative spirit of abused, homeless and at-risk children and their families to inspire and transform their lives through the power of artistic expression.

Since 1993, Free Arts of Arizona has touched the lives of more than 40,000 young people, helping them build self-esteem, improve social skills, renew trust and learn to express emotions in a positive way through the healing effects of the creative arts. Art Heals, Every Child Matters and Mentoring Works are its three core values and are carefully incorporated into each of the four continuous programs.

*No longer with the organization