Timothy Maynes G’14, a graduate student enrolled in the Janklow Arts Leadership Program in Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences, is pursuing a master’s degree in Arts Leadership. The Vermont native says he dreams of running a performing arts center or a performing arts high school someday.

The M.A. in Arts Leadership is a 15-month master’s program that trains students for leadership positions in the creative and performing arts. Operating at the intersection of arts administration and social entrepreneurship, the Janklow Program combines interdisciplinary coursework with professional mentorships, competitive internships, and unique immersion opportunities.

We are pleased to feature Maynes, who just landed an exciting internship opportunity with Disney, in our special “Student Spotlight” series.

1. Tell us a little bit about life before SU?

I graduated Magna cum Laude from Ithaca College with a BA in Drama in 2008.  After graduation, I taught high school English and theatre before coming to SU. Additionally, I served as the Education Chair on the Board of Directors for Lyric Theatre and was the Artistic Director of the company’s LyricKids youth theater program.

2.Why did you choose the Janklow Program at SU?

I felt that the Janklow Program’s multi-disciplinary approach to the field of arts leadership was a perfect fit for me, and I responded positively to the program’s focus on community engagement and its practical approach to graduate study. Additionally, when I was looking into the program, Founding Director Mark Nerenhausen’s enthusiasm and passion for it was clear, which has carried through the entire program.

3. What’s your favorite thing about attending SU?

I’ve enjoyed meeting and learning from the diverse student body at SU. It’s rare to have the chance to interact with people from such varied educational and work backgrounds, and having the opportunity to have classes with students from programs in Maxwell, Newhouse, Whitman, etc, has broadened my learning and my view of the issues in my field.

4.What’s the best way to spend free time as a SU student?

Hanging out and grabbing a bite at Varsity is a classic SU experience.

5. How is SU helping you to achieve your goals and aspirations?

The interdisciplinary coursework at SU has provided me with the varied skill set needed to succeed in today’s complex business environment. Most importantly, though, SU has provided me with a holistic and creative way to think about the issues in my field and the challenges the next generation of leaders will need to tackle. Finally, the university’s vast network has already begun to open doors for me.

6. What are some of the activities you like around CNY that aren’t SU affiliated?

I enjoy attending local/regional performing arts venues like the Syracuse Stage or The Hangar Theater in Ithaca. There are also many awesome outdoor activities throughout the CNY region.

7. Tell us a bit about your upcoming internship.

Staring at the end of May, I will be working with Disney Theatrical Group in midtown NYC as a Production Licensing Summer Associate. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with an industry leader and continue to learn from the best. As a former theatre performer, director, and educator, the licensing internship is a perfect opportunity for me to blend the skills I've gained from my past professional and educational experiences, and I am excited to expand my skills through this internship with such a fantastic company! 

8. What will your role be at Disney?

Working in the Production Licensing Department, I will assist in preparing various Disney/Disney Jr. shows (and their supplemental materials) for release to theater companies and schools to license. This includes the creation of choreography DVDs, director’s guides, curriculum ideas, and many other aspects of the show kits.

9. What are you most looking forward to learning during your internship experience?

Disney is a company respected throughout the world for, among other qualities, its attention to detail, its strong branding, its focus on collaboration, and its strategic decision-making. I know this opportunity will provide me with the chance to learn “the business” from a leader in the entertainment industry, to apply the skills I’ve learned during my time at SU to exciting projects, as well as allow me to participate in Disney’s long tradition of superior storytelling.

10. How did the Janklow Program help you as you were searching for internship opportunities?

Mostly importantly, the Janklow Program provided me with a well-rounded knowledge and skill set to pull from in the application/interview process. In addition to preparing me through coursework, Professor Nerenhausen’s guidance and extensive connections were invaluable throughout the process.