Exclusive Interview with Prof. Megan Heber – Part 2: Lessons Leaned

Professor Megan Heber, MA, MBA © Megan Heber

In the second and final part of the exclusive interview with Prof. Megan Heber, she emphasizes the importance of flexibility, continuous learning, and building a robust network for achieving success in the arts sector. She recounts a memorable experience from her tenure in the United States Navy Music Program, performing for Pearl Harbor survivors, which highlighted music’s emotional and communal power and reinforced her commitment to excellence.

Heber’s dual degrees in business and arts management have equipped her with a balanced perspective on integrating creative vision with practical strategies. She advises aspiring professionals to stay proactive, open to new opportunities, and continuously adapt. Looking ahead, Heber envisions the arts driving significant social change and promoting inclusivity, with technological advancements expanding their reach and impact, creating a more open and diverse art world.

What advice would you give to someone who is seriously interested in achieving success in the art sector? Is there a road map to such success and how can those who are just starting on this path minimize risk?

First and foremost, it’s crucial to embrace flexibility and continuous learning. The arts are an ever-evolving field, with new trends and technologies emerging constantly. Staying adaptable and committed to lifelong learning will not only keep you relevant but also open doors to new opportunities that might otherwise be missed.

Equally important is the need to build a robust network and seek mentors. Having mentors provides a source of guidance and support, offering insights that can help you navigate the complexities of the arts sector.

Approach your career with passion and purpose. The journey can sometimes be challenging, but a deep-rooted passion for your work will fuel your perseverance and drive your creativity, making the obstacles more manageable and the achievements more fulfilling.

Lastly, adopt a giving mentality. Consider what you can offer to others rather than just what you can gain. Celebrate the successes of your peers alongside your own. This approach not only fosters a supportive community but also reinforces the idea that ‘a rising tide lifts all ships.’ Witnessing the success of my colleagues, students, or friends, genuinely celebrating their achievements, and contributing in any way to their triumphs has provided some of the most memorable and rewarding moments of my life.

Could you share a memorable experience from your time serving in the United States Navy Music Program? How did that experience influence your subsequent career in the arts?

During my tenure in the United States Navy Music Program, one of the most memorable and profound experiences was performing annually for the survivors of Pearl Harbor on the anniversary of the attack. Each year, we held a ceremony that included a private remembrance on the Arizona Memorial. This solemn occasion was not only a tribute to the resilience and courage of those who served and sacrificed but also a profound reminder of the power of music to heal and commemorate.

This experience deeply influenced my approach to the arts in several ways. Firstly, it underscored the emotional and communal impact of music, reinforcing my belief in its capacity to bring people together and provide solace during times of collective mourning or reflection.

Secondly, these performances taught me about the importance of precision and excellence in presentation, traits that are invaluable in any artistic endeavor. Every note played and every piece performed had to be delivered with the utmost respect and professionalism, reflecting the solemnity of the occasion.

Furthermore, this experience shaped my understanding of the role of arts organizations in society. It demonstrated that they are not merely venues for entertainment but vital institutions that serve a broader community function, including commemoration, education, and healing. This realization has driven my commitment to ensure the arts are accessible and relevant to all segments of society.

You hold multiple degrees, including an MBA and an MA in Arts Management. How have your educational experiences shaped your understanding of the intersection between business and the arts?

Earning both an MBA and an MA profoundly shaped my understanding of the delicate balance between creative vision and practical business strategy.

The MBA equipped me with critical business management skills and acumen, including accounting, financial analysis, and economics, essential for effectively leading complex organizations. These skills provide a foundation for making sound decisions that ensure sustainability and growth.

Conversely, the MA allowed me to dive deep into the unique challenges and opportunities within the arts and nonprofit sectors. It focused on audience development, nonprofit governance, fundraising, and the impact of the arts on society. This knowledge helps me nurture and promote the arts in a way that respects their unique value while ensuring their longevity and relevance.

Together, these degrees have demonstrated to me that business and the arts are not at odds but can greatly benefit from each other. Implementing sound business strategies in the arts can lead to greater efficiency and sustainability, while embracing the creative and transformative power of the arts can lead to more innovative and meaningful business practices.

As someone who has transitioned between various roles within the arts sector, from executive director to event coordinator, what advice do you have for individuals navigating their careers in this field?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying open to new opportunities. The arts are exceptionally dynamic, constantly shaped by new technologies, shifting cultural policies, and emerging trends. To thrive in this environment, you must be willing to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unexpected. Flexibility has been key; whether that’s adapting to new roles or exploring new areas, each experience has expanded my ‘toolkit’.

My advice to anyone navigating their career in the arts is to remain proactive and not just wait for opportunities but actively seek them out. Build a diverse network of contacts, continue learning, and be ready to shift when necessary. The arts sector can be unpredictable, but with a proactive and open-minded approach, it also offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and creativity. Being prepared to take on various responsibilities and learning from each of them is crucial. After all, each role offers unique insights into the complexities of arts management.

Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of the arts world and its potential to create social change, both locally and globally?

Looking ahead, I feel optimistic about the future of the arts world and its capacity to drive significant social change, both at local and global levels. The arts have always been a powerful medium for expressing universal human experiences and emotions, connecting diverse groups across different cultures and backgrounds. As we move forward, I believe the arts will play an even more critical role in addressing pressing societal issues, fostering dialogue and understanding, and promoting inclusivity.

Technological advancements are set to expand the reach and impact of the arts further. Digital platforms will allow artists to share their work with a global audience and engage communities in ways that were not previously possible, breaking down geographical and socioeconomic barriers. This increased accessibility will likely lead to a more open art world where diverse voices and stories are heard and valued.

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