Meet Sandra Abbott, who has been working in UMBC’s art world for 14 years. Whether it’s through setting up world-class exhibitions or coordinating educational programs, Sandra combines her work as curator of collections and outreach at the Center for Art, Design, and Visual Culture (CADVC) and affiliate faculty in the visual arts department. Sandra thrives in her role of introducing Retrievers and community members to great art.
Q: What part of your job do you enjoy the most and why?
A: I love working with students who are exploring my profession. They keep me on my toes and ask the best questions.
Q: Who is someone in the community who has supported you, and how did they do it?
A: When I needed to research local 3D printers for a special K-12 art project, I reached out to alum Maks Prykhodko, M.F.A. ’21, IMDA. Maks returned my email within 24 hours and offered help, including a personal introduction to those I needed to connect with at the best vendor.
This is only one example of many alumni I’ve reconnected with professionally after UMBC. This community supports you at UMBC and beyond. It’s the best network!
Q: Tell us about what you love about where you work.
A: What I love about the CADVC gallery is the amazing, world-class artwork I pass by every time I come and go from my office.
Q: What brought you to UMBC in the first place?
A: I was drawn to UMBC as a place known for its academic rigor and scholarship. I wanted to develop my career amongst those who took their work as seriously as I took mine.
“What I love about the CADVC gallery is the amazing, world-class artwork I pass by every time I come and go from my office.
Q: What would you tell someone who is considering a career at UMBC?
There is always someone who can help you when you have a question or a challenge. The network of experts we have access to at UMBC is astounding. They range from those in cybersecurity and STEM to the arts and beyond. I’ve made many connections here, which often continue beyond UMBC.
There is also always something happening—live theater, films, exhibitions, lectures, and performances. Personal growth, wellness, and education are among so many shared values here.
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UMBC’s greatest strength is its people. When people meet Retrievers and hear about the passion they bring, the relationships they create, the ways they support each other, and the commitment they have to inclusive excellence, they truly get a sense of our community. That’s what “Meet a Retriever” is all about.
Learn more about how UMBC can help you achieve your goals.
Tags: CADVC, Fall 2022, Meet a Retriever, Retriever Behind the Scenes
