From left to right: Clint Jukkala, dean of PAFA’s School of Fine Arts, David Brigham, president and CEO of PAFA, Dr. John Hoffman, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs, and Dr. Sandra Crenshaw, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.

On May 2, Arcadia signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), establishing a strategic alliance for students to explore a broad scope of disciplines, artistic outlets, and professional environments.

Through this collaboration, Arcadia students will strengthen their creative competencies by accessing state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge studio equipment, engaging with distinguished faculty in new academic settings, and exploring significant artwork housed in the Academy’s renowned museum.

Likewise, PAFA community members will have opportunities to experience a liberal arts education, allowing students to develop their creative interests in historical, scientific, and cross-cultural contexts.

“This strategic alliance will open various avenues for critical inquiry and discourse,” said Dr. John Hoffman, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. “As an institution that promotes the transformative power of art, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts shares Arcadia’s commitment to celebrating creative excellence, challenging students, and facilitating opportunities for artistic development.”

This marked the second Memorandum of Understanding instituted during the spring 2017 semester. In March, Arcadia and Lansdale Catholic High School signed a Dual Enrollment Agreement that will allow high school juniors and seniors to participate in educational and social experiences to help ease the transition to college. Students will gain exposure to the academic climate of Arcadia, while demonstrating their ability to handle rigorous coursework at the collegiate level.