Central Virginia Community College is expanding access to arts education through a new partnership with the Academy Center of the Arts. Individuals who apply to CVCC and enroll in the courses may participate at no cost thanks to grant funding provided by the CVCC Educational Foundation. The Academy Center of the Arts is partnering with the College to host the courses in its downtown facilities, creating a dynamic, community-based learning environment.
Beginning this Fall, CVCC students and community members may enroll in:
ART 131 – Two-Dimensional Design
This studio-based, 3-credit course introduces the elements and principles of two-dimensional design. Students explore media, techniques, compositional strategies, and color interaction while developing conceptual and critical thinking skills through historical and contemporary artistic practices.
CST 130 – Introduction to the Theatre
This 3-credit course surveys theatre history and the development of the theatrical process. Students examine dramatic literature, performance, genres, style, and production elements while gaining insight into the collaborative art of theatre.
Both courses qualify as Fine Arts electives, award full college credit, and fulfill general education requirements transferable to four-year institutions across Virginia.
Through funding provided by the CVCC Educational Foundation, the program is supported by a philanthropic gift dedicated to expanding access to arts education in honor of a former CVCC art faculty member. The Foundation’s support allows eligible participants to enroll in the courses at no cost.
“This partnership expands access to high-quality arts education while removing financial barriers,” said associate vice president of arts and sciences, Dr. Mark Tinsley. “We’re proud to collaborate with the Academy Center of the Arts to create meaningful, transferable academic opportunities for our community.”
“I am excited to partner with Central Virginia Community College to expand access to accredited arts classes for residents of Central Virginia,” said Michelline Hall, Chief Programming Officer at the Academy Center of the Arts. “Art is both a powerful form of expression and a skill that can be strengthened through education, focused practice, and time. I am deeply grateful to Mark Tinsley and his team, along with Cynthia Deutsch, for their commitment to this program and for making it possible to offer these opportunities here at the Academy.”
Classes start this Fall and will be held at the Academy Center of the Arts in downtown Lynchburg, providing students with a vibrant, professional arts environment while earning college credit.
Enrollment is now open. For more information, contact Janet Ashley at ashleyj@centralvirginia.edu.
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About Central Virginia Community College
Central Virginia Community College is a two-year state college located in Lynchburg, Virginia and is part of the Virginia Community College System. Established in 1966, CVCC serves students at its main campus in Lynchburg, and its off-site centers in Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, and Campbell counties. The curricula and programs of the college serve more than 228,000 people within this geographical jurisdiction. With academic excellence as its aim in all areas, CVCC offers various programs to meet the diverse needs of the region it serves. Learn more about CVCC at centralvirginia.edu.
About Central Virginia Community College Educational Foundation
The CVCC Educational Foundation is dedicated to supporting the mission of Central Virginia Community College by raising funds, increasing community partnerships, and expanding opportunities that help students succeed. Through philanthropic support, the Foundation provides scholarships, grants, and student support resources that reduce barriers to education, advance teaching innovations, and strengthen workforce and community development. The Foundation’s work fosters academic excellence, encourages leadership, and ensures that more students can pursue their educational and career goals. Learn more about the Foundation at centralvirginia.edu/educational-foundation.
About Academy Center of the Arts
The Academy Center of the Arts, anchored by the historic Academy of Music Theatre, is greater Lynchburg’s multi-facility center for arts, culture, and community building, occupying 1.25 blocks on Main Street in downtown Lynchburg. The Academy Center of the Arts, previously known as the Academy of Fine Arts, was formed in 2003 from the merger of the Lynchburg Fine Arts Center and the Academy of Music Theatre, Inc. Built in 1905 and closed in 1958, the Theatre is one of the few surviving Beaux-Arts style theatres in Virginia. For more information, visit www.AcademyCenter.org.