
OUR EIGHTH HEAD OF SCHOOL: Dr. MELINDA ZACHER RONAYNE
The Chicago Academy for the Arts welcomes Dr. Mindy Ronayne, current Director of Visual Arts at Interlochen Center for the Arts, as its new Head of School starting summer 2025, bringing her extensive leadership experience and artistic vision to build upon Jason Patera's remarkable 30-year legacy.

Music and Theatre Collaborate to Create "Peter and the Starcatcher"
In this behind-the-scenes look, Music Department Chair Rachel Brown shares how The Academy's Music and Theatre Departments worked together to bring this exciting production to the stage.

Alumni Spotlight: Karen Szczech (Music ‘17)
Karen Szczech, a dedicated violinist and first-generation American, graduated from the Academy's Music Department in 2017. Together with her sister Kasia, an alum from 2013, Karen co-founded Magical Keys, a versatile musical organization that includes performances, education, and community engagement.

Academy Teacher Named Fulbright Scholar: Lauren Rovin's Experience in Mexico
Read about Spanish Teacher Lauren Rovin's experience as a Fulbright Scholar!

Heather Day (Visual Arts '08) Featured in W Magazine
Check out Heather Day (Visual Arts '08) in W Magazine!

Akenya Seymour (Music '10) in Chicago Reader
Check out alum Akenya Seymour (Music ‘10) in the Chicago Reader’s podcast, The Sit Down, hosted by Shawnee Dez.

Kevin Miles (Theatre '08) Visits The Academy: ABC 7 Eyewitness News
Kevin Miles (Theatre ‘08) and The Academy on ABC 7 News!

Dance Department Chair Randy Duncan in The Chicago Sun-Times
Celebrating 30 years of transforming young dancers, Randy Duncan received a feature in The Chicago Sun-Times!

Youth and Government Visits Springfield
The Student Leadership Conference & General Assembly took place from March 7 to 10, with 15 Youth and Government students representing The Academy in Springfield.

Justin Tranter (Musical Theatre '98) Discusses Grammy Nomination with AP News
The Academy proudly congratulates alum Justin Tranter (Musical Theatre ’98) for being nominated for Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical) at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards!


Justin Tranter (Musical Theatre '98) on NBC Chicago
See Justin Tranter on NBC Chicago’s new series “It’s OK to Ask Questions”.