“The world needs more artists” – and we couldn’t agree more! For our final episode of Mental Health Awareness Month, we are joined by Laurel Donley, Vice Provost of Student Affairs at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Ms. Donley brings a unique perspective, blending her background in social work with her experience in higher education by sharing how she and her team are building a true culture of care on campus - for both students and staff. Find out why rest is essential for creativity and how to handle feedback in a way that helps you grow as an artist and as a person. Whether you dream of a career in the arts or simply want to find balance in your busy life, you will be inspired to make a lasting impact in your community. Ms. Donley is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Organizational Learning and Leadership at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She was named Vice Provost and Dean for Student Affairs at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA) in July 2023, following ten years of service in Student Affairs at UNCSA and more than two decades of experience in both academic and student affairs roles. Prior to her current role, she served as Assistant Dean of Student Development and Director of High School Life, overseeing areas including high school life, residence life, new student orientation, student engagement, student assistance and support (case management), and the Fitness Center. As a recognized leader in student mental health, Ms. Donley has served on the UNC System Mental Health Task Force and was a panelist for the UNC Board of Governors’ initiative on Collegiate Mental Health: Current Trends and Challenges. She is a founding member of the Higher Education Case Managers Association (HECMA) in 2011, and served as its president from 2018 to 2020. To learn more about Ms. Donley and her work, visit her at UNCSA.edu or connect with her on LinkedIn.