I am a second-year MFA student at the University of New Orleans, and I know firsthand how vital this program has been to our community. Over the years, it has fostered countless amazing artists who have gone on to make significant contributions to the arts, both locally and nationally. The MFA in Visual Arts at UNO isn't just a program; it’s a vibrant community where creativity thrives, innovation is encouraged, and diverse voices are heard.

The possibility of this program being shut down is concerning, not just for current students but also for the rich art culture of New Orleans that it nurtures. Eliminating the MFA in Visual Arts would mean loss of a creative and academic hub at UNO, affecting current students, alumni, and the arts community at large. New Orleans is a city deeply connected to its artistic roots; maintaining such programs is crucial to preserving its cultural identity.

The arts are an essential part of education and development. Investing in the arts is investing in the cultural and intellectual growth of a community. The closure of this program would be a step backward for the cultural enrichment not only of our students but of the entire city.

We urge the administration at the University of New Orleans to reconsider this decision. Instead of shutting down the program, there should be efforts to support and expand it, recognizing its impact on students and the broader arts community.

Please sign this petition to show your support for keeping the MFA in Visual Arts Program alive and thriving at the University of New Orleans. Together, we can safeguard the future of arts education in our community.