This transformative initiative aims to provide equitable access to high-quality art and design education for Baltimore City students facing financial challenges in underserved communities. The program not only embodies MICA's mission to "thrive with Baltimore" but also aligns with their belief in the power of artists, designers, and educators as cultural innovators and agents of creative and progressive social change.
About the foundations
The Jacques and Natasha Gelman Foundation have committed $1,000,000 to endow the ADCAP program at MICA, and The Thalheimer Foundation fully funded the request of $500,000 which will be broken into $125,000 for the annual program support for ADCAP this year and $375,000 for the endowment.
The foundations’ generous contribution marks a pivotal moment in the history of MICA's commitment to empowering the local community through the arts. With this invaluable support, the Art & Design College Accelerator Program will offer a pathway to success for talented and promising students from Baltimore City who might not have otherwise had access to such opportunities.
"We believe that promising young artists in Baltimore deserve the chance to pursue their dreams," said Rebecca Sirody, Executive Director of the Alvin and Fanny B. Thalheimer Foundation. "By partnering with MICA's Art & Design College Accelerator Program, we hope to bridge the gap and empower these students to contribute to the artistic vibrancy and growth of our city."
ADCAP structure
The program's unique structure ensures that participating students receive not only the world-class educational material and curriculum that MICA is renowned for but also the advantages of a dedicated support network and individual mentorship. Each year, 15 coveted spaces are available for this unparalleled opportunity, making it highly competitive. Students who are accepted into the program will receive full scholarships for their participation which covers transportation, meals, and art supplies throughout their journey.
MICA’s mission is deeply rooted in enriching the lives of Baltimoreans, and through this program, we are opening doors for young artists to realize their potential and make a lasting impact on our city's creative landscape," said David Gracyalny, Vice Provost of Open Studies.
Deadline to Apply to the Next Cohort
To be considered for this life-changing opportunity, current Baltimore City high school sophomores are encouraged to apply before the deadline of September 14, 2023. Prospective students must demonstrate exceptional promise in the arts and a genuine passion for pursuing a degree in art and design. Applications can be submitted through MICA's ADCAP official program page: http://www.mica.edu/adcap.
MICA's dedication to uplifting Baltimore City students and fostering their creative potential is a testament to the profound impact the arts can have on society. As the program's next cohort launch draws near, MICA invites local Baltimoreans, art and design foundations, donors, and current and prospective students to unite in supporting this transformative initiative that will shape the future of Baltimore's creative landscape.
For more information on the Art & Design College Accelerator Program and how you can support this endeavor, please visit mica.edu/adcap.