Tori Costantino G’14 earned a M.A. in arts leadership administration from the Janklow Arts Leadership Program just last month and already she’s well on her way to achieving career success. Costantino, a San Antonio, Texas native, was just named theater operations coordinator for the Austin Film Festival, a uniquely pro-artist and interactive idea exchange, affectionately referred to as a “greenhouse for projects and a clubhouse for legendary and emerging artists.”

In her new role, Costantino will oversee venue operations and filmmaker relations; a job she says she’s prepared to tackle thanks to the education she received while attending the Janklow Arts Leadership Program. “The Janklow Program prepared me for practical occupational endeavors,” says Costantino. “It offered a reputable cross-curricular education, rather than strict fine arts or business-based tracks.”

Prior to enrolling in the Janklow Program, Costantino earned a B.F.A. in theatre studies from The University of Texas at Austin, professional costume designed, and obtained Texas teacher’s certifications in theatre arts (EC-12) and special education (EC-12), and managed a secondary theatre program. She credits her diverse education in fine arts, education, and business, as well as her prior occupational experience for her career preparedness.

The management side of the arts has always interested Costantino the most. “I come from a long-line of business owners. Along with my love of the arts, I’ve been raised with a passion for leadership and business. The Janklow Arts Leadership Program was a perfect fit for both of my interests.”

Housed in SU’s College of Arts and Sciences, the Janklow Arts Leadership Program strives to prepare its students to become leaders in the creative and performing arts and, subsequently, leaders in their communities. Mark Nerenhausen, founding director of the Janklow Arts Leadership Program, says Tori is destined for greatness. “Tori was an exceptional student and I am not surprised she has landed such a great job in such a short amount of time. She is a natural leader with great knowledge and appreciation of the arts. We are extremely excited and proud that she has earned this tremendous opportunity.”

The Austin Film Festival and Conference is scheduled for October 23-30 in downtown Austin, Texas.