Thesis
To stay in or leave the arts: an overview of satisfaction and retention in current and former arts administrators
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Dec 2018
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/wh7z-qa62
Abstract
This thesis addresses why some arts administrators leave the arts sector and how a passion for the arts plays a role in this transition. Job satisfaction in current and former arts administrators was studied to understand the career decisions of arts administrators and assess the nonprofit arts sector's investment in human capital. This qualitative research was developed from scholarly sources, current market research, current events, and original research. After interviewing 21 individuals, I learned that many interrelated factors impacted decisions. However, the primary determinants of leaving the arts were extrinsic factors, including compensation, workload and burnout, lack of opportunities for advancement and job availability, and work environments. Arts administrators often stayed in the field for intrinsic rewards, such as fulfillment in serving a cause they were passionate about, the sense of community built with colleagues, and additional rewards like empowerment and opportunities to exercise creativity. Other factors impacted decisions and careers paths as well, including life stage and personal life activities. After leaving the sector, most former arts administrators continued their engagement as patrons, volunteers, and board members. The findings reveal that there are many challenges with the arts administration profession that affect employee satisfaction and morale. Understanding compensation and interviewees' career paths and financial situations also introduces questions of privilege, accessibility, and workforce sustainability.
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Details
- Title
- To stay in or leave the arts
- Creators
- Megan Tomey - DU
- Contributors
- Pamela Yau (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- viii, 129 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Arts Administration; Arts and Entertainment Enterprise; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 8233; 991014632432504721