University of North Texas 
SNAAP gathers, analyzes and reports on survey data from graduates of arts and design
schools and colleges to understand the professional success, educational satisfaction,
and personal fulfillment of arts alumni.
National Study Highlights the Community Impact of Arts and Design Graduates
Arts and design graduates do more than build careers — they help build stronger communities.
A recent report from the Strategic National Arts Alumni Project, SNAAP, highlights
the many ways arts and design alumni contribute to civic life. From volunteering and
mentoring to supporting nonprofit organizations, participating in community events
and using their creative skills, these alumni benefit the public.
The report, "Community Lives of Arts and Design Alumni," challenges the stereotype that artists work in isolation. Instead, it finds that
many graduates remain actively engaged in their communities throughout their lives,
often combining their professional expertise with volunteer service, advocacy and
leadership.
According to SNAAP, arts and design alumni contribute in a variety of ways. Many volunteer
their time, serve on nonprofit boards, mentor students and emerging professionals,
organize cultural programs and support arts organizations. Others apply their creative
skills to community projects, helping nonprofits, schools and civic organizations
communicate more effectively and engage broader audiences.
The findings also suggest that an arts education prepares graduates for more than
employment. Skills developed through arts and design programs — including creativity,
collaboration, communication and problem-solving — continue to benefit graduates as
they take on leadership roles in their professions and communities.
For colleges of art and design, the report reinforces the broader value of creative
education. Graduates contribute not only to the economy through their professional
work, but also to the cultural and civic health of the communities where they live.
The report is based on responses from arts and design alumni who participated in SNAAP's
Community Engagement survey, which examines how creative professionals engage with
their communities beyond the workplace.
Note: Please check upcoming CVAD News and Views, Instagram and Facebook posts as we highlight
CVAD alumni making our communities stronger.