Derek Cooper
Catonsville,MD
Summary
Forward-thinking performing arts and education specialist with expertise in arts integration, theatre performance development, and event planning. A problem-solver competent in inter-departmental collaboration. Manages assignments, schedules and projects with a detail-oriented and high quality mindset.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Learning Senior Specialist
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
11.2023 - Current
- Researches, creates, implements, and evaluates activities and programs for visiting children (birth through age 10) and their families
- Supports department leadership in strategic planning and implementing improved policies, procedures, and controls.
- Conceptual creative lead on theatrical shows, special themed weekend days, and signature museum events.
- Participates in department budget and yearly calendar development.
- Identifies and maintains pertinent community partnerships, performers, and materials that enhance the Museum’s programmatic offerings and missions.
- Developed and facilitated grant-funded, outreach arts programming.
- Improve overall knowledge and motivates strong performance of team members through mentoring and coaching.
- Writes and edits program descriptions for the Marketing department used on the museum’s website.
Senior Education Specialist
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
01.2022 - 10.2023
- Promoted within two years and eight months for recognition of conceptual prowess, strategic thinking, and widespread experience.
- Planned, formulated and assessed goals, policies, and activities designed to implement educational objectives and performance standards.
- Developed community education programming events and other activities designed to increase and improve educational outcomes and visitor satisfaction.
Performing Arts Specialist
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
03.2019 - 01.2022
- Title and responsibilities shifted due to success in performing arts and STEAM-based program development.
- Created, performed, and evaluated theatrical shows in partnership with the museum's Performance Specialist.
- Spoke to delegates at Maryland Arts Day 2020 and 2021 and providing anecdotal examples of performing arts programming's impact at the museum.
Early Childhood & Performing Arts Coordinator
Port Discovery Children's Museum
06.2015 - 03.2019
- Created, implemented, and entered evaluation data on early literacy and theatre based activities and programs for multiple age groups.
- Facilitated special outreach programming at various day care centers and afterschool sessions around Maryland.
Assistant Guest Services Supervisor
Port Discovery Children's Museum
04.2013 - 06.2015
- Promoted within eight months for maintaining consistent positive customer feedback and attention to detail.
- Trained and mentored new museum hires and current team members in museum policies, procedures, and troubleshooting.
- Greeted, assisted, and interacted with guests.
- Created and coordinated the performance aspect of museum’s annual fundraiser with the Vice President for May 2014 and 2015.
Program Associate
Port Discovery Children's Museum
08.2012 - 04.2013
- Facilitated the visitors’ understanding and enjoyment of the museum’s exhibits and policies
- Guided visiting school groups on tours and assisted the lead teacher with their needs.
Performer, Sound System Operator, and Understudy
Children’s Theatre Association
09.2011 - 05.2012
- Performed and ran technical equipment with troupe in original, educational plays for schools around the state of Maryland.
- Maintained up-to-date records on Maryland school’s contact information.
- Assisted in faxing promotions for upcoming shows to schools and theatres around Maryland.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre
Lynchburg College
Lynchburg, VA05.2011
Skills
- Innovation Management
- Problem Solving
- Strategic Planning
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Project Management
- Training and Mentorship
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Canva
Phone
(410) 499-7030, (667) 802-5111
Timeline
Learning Senior Specialist
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
11.2023 - Current
Senior Education Specialist
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
01.2022 - 10.2023
Performing Arts Specialist
Port Discovery Children’s Museum
03.2019 - 01.2022
Early Childhood & Performing Arts Coordinator
Port Discovery Children's Museum
06.2015 - 03.2019
Assistant Guest Services Supervisor
Port Discovery Children's Museum
04.2013 - 06.2015
Program Associate
Port Discovery Children's Museum
08.2012 - 04.2013
Performer, Sound System Operator, and Understudy
Children’s Theatre Association
09.2011 - 05.2012
Bachelor of Arts - Theatre
Lynchburg College
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