Christy Ortiz
Cypress
Summary
Innovative and mission-driven arts education professional with a robust background in museum leadership, nonprofit management, and arts-based curriculum development. Brings over a decade of experience directing educational programming, supervising multidisciplinary teams, managing budgets, and cultivating partnerships to strengthen institutional impact. Proven track record of designing inclusive, community-centered programming and fundraising strategies that support long-term organizational sustainability. Adept at aligning creative vision with operational excellence to advance strategic goals, preserve cultural assets, and expand public access to the arts. Known for collaborative leadership, compelling communication, and a deep commitment to diversity, education, and community engagement through the arts.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Digital Media and Photography Teacher
Cypress Lakes High School
08.2024 - Current
- Teaches photography and digital media, aligning curriculum to state standards.
- Provides student support, develops departmental resources, and fosters arts engagement.
Founding Director and Educator
Van Meteren School of Art
01.2019 - Current
- Founded nonprofit arts education program serving youth and adults.
- Designed integrated curriculum blending critical thinking, discovery learning, and artmaking.
- Responded to community needs with continuing education and enrichment programs.
Manager of Education Department
Rienzi, Museum of Fine Arts Houston
09.2022 - 07.2024
- Directed all education and public outreach programs for the historic house museum.
- Developed strategic plans, docents' training, evaluation systems, and public programming.
- Managed budgets, communications, and served as liaison to local historic and arts organizations.
Adjunct Professor
Lone Star College
01.2019 - 05.2022
- Taught Art Appreciation courses, supported diverse learning styles, and led museum-based assignments.
- Promoted student engagement through open dialogue, critiques, and field-based experiences.
Lecturer
University of Houston
08.2017 - 05.2022
- Designed and delivered curriculum for undergraduate and graduate courses in art education.
- Supported educational research projects and mentored pre-service teachers.
- Integrated instructional technologies for both face-to-face and online delivery.
Professor
Savannah College of Art and Design
06.2008 - 06.2013
- Taught arts education courses to MAT teacher candidates with fine art and performing art focus.
- Led instructional planning, faculty mentoring, community engagement, and program evaluation.
- Presented professional development workshops nationally and internationally.
Education
Ed.D. - Curriculum and Instruction, Art Education
University of Houston
M.Ed. - Curriculum and Instruction, Art Education
University of Houston
BFA - undefined
St. Edward's University
Certificate - Nonprofit Management Certificate Program
University of Texas at Austin
12.2025
Skills
- Museum and Nonprofit Leadership
- Art Education and Curriculum Design
- Community Engagement & Partnerships
- Program Development & Evaluation
- Fundraising and Grant Writing
- Financial Oversight
- Staff Supervision and Mentoring
- Public Speaking and Communication
Certification
Texas Educator Certificate, Standard, All-Level Art, Grades PK-12
Timeline
Digital Media and Photography Teacher
Cypress Lakes High School
08.2024 - Current
Manager of Education Department
Rienzi, Museum of Fine Arts Houston
09.2022 - 07.2024
Founding Director and Educator
Van Meteren School of Art
01.2019 - Current
Adjunct Professor
Lone Star College
01.2019 - 05.2022
Lecturer
University of Houston
08.2017 - 05.2022
Professor
Savannah College of Art and Design
06.2008 - 06.2013
M.Ed. - Curriculum and Instruction, Art Education
University of Houston
BFA - undefined
St. Edward's University
Certificate - Nonprofit Management Certificate Program
University of Texas at Austin
Ed.D. - Curriculum and Instruction, Art Education
University of Houston
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