What made you choose FSU? 

Attending FSU was a dream that I never thought would be possible growing up as a child in South Georgia. After completing a Master’s degree in Business Administration in 2008 and continuing to work in higher education, I realized all of my mentors had terminal degrees. Several of my mentors expressed the importance of pursing a doctorate degree as it would later be beneficial in my career within higher education administration. With that advice, I decided to go back and get my doctorate.  

Describe the importance of your research and work. 

My research is based on entrepreneurship in the arts. As a musician with a business background, I recognize the gap in the intersectionality between entrepreneurship and the arts. Furthermore, a common misconception is that if you are an artist, you are probably a starving artist. I want to debunk this myth and offer a different way of thinking through the display of successful artists. The entrepreneurial spirit has been the foundation of this country and an expression of the American Dream. I believe my research merges business and art to create a beautiful collaboration where everyone has the potential to win. The beauty of an artist’s endeavors colliding with business is a work of art in itself. Some artists see pursuing profit as a negative stigma, but I see it as a necessity for survival even within the non-profit sector. 

Briefly describe your career aspirations. 

I hope to work in university administration and teach business courses to artists. I always found it fascinating that one of the Presidents at my undergraduate institution, Valdosta State University, was an artist.  

What advice do you have for anyone considering graduate school? 

Tenacity is a necessity. Graduate school is challenging and requires sacrifice. Keep your eyes on the prize.