Jillian Cockburn

"After completing a university degree minoring in dance, I knew that I wanted to work in the arts and cultural sector in an administrative or management capacity. I just didn't know how to get there. In 2006, I came across Humber's Arts Administration/Cultural Management Program, and my decision to enrol in the program was essentially a leap of faith. It turned out to be one of the best professional decisions I've made so far."

As a Freelance Arts Administrator, Jillian Cockburn provides administrative managerial, and consulting support to arts organizations, collectives and independent artists from across Ontario.  She has a solid background in various areas of arts administration and cultural management including: grant-writing, fundraising, marketing, outreach, communications, and general administration.

Her client list includes: Arbez Drama Projects (Toronto), Ballet Creole (Toronto), Guelph Contemporary Dance Festival (Guelph), Melanie Gausden (Toronto), Mixed Company Theatre (Toronto) and Sheatre (Kemble). Her previous work tenures include Interim General Manager at Odyssey Theatre (Ottawa) and Development Manager at Ballet Creole. She has also completed internships as the Communications Assistant at the Toronto Arts Council (Toronto) and as the Marketing & Outreach Assistant at Ballet Creole.

Jillian holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science and Dance from York University and a Post- Graduate Certificate (Honours) in Arts Administration/Cultural Management from Humber College.

An avid volunteer and arts advocate, Jillian has served as the Interim Corporate Secretary for the Board of Directors of the Guelph Arts Council. In this role, she supported and contributed to the development of her local arts community, the enrichment of cultural life in Guelph and the widespread appreciation and promotion in the arts.