Perpich Center for Arts Education welcomed representatives from the Governor’s office to campus on April 16, 2026, for a visit that highlighted the agency’s mission, student leadership, and community engagement.

Student leaders Ajay Nicholas (Visual Arts 2026), Jalena Gumban (Literary Arts 2026), and Ruth Civettini (Musical Theater 2026) met with the visiting team, sharing their experiences and perspectives on life at Perpich. Their reflections offered an inside look at a learning environment where students take ownership of their work and their impact.

Representatives from the Governor’s office visited Perpich on April 16, 2026. Pictured (left to right) are: Allegra Smisek, Executive Director; Ajay Nicholas (Visual Arts 2026); Jalena Gumban (Literary Arts 2026); Greta Johnson, Director of Boards and Commissions; Ruth Civettini (Musical Theater 2026); Erin Bauer, Special Assistant to the General Counsel; Riley Roberts, Assistant Director of Boards and Commissions; and Rebecca Bullen, Perpich Arts High School Principal.

Jalena Gumban described contributing to “The Goose”, a statewide, student-run literary magazine, collaborating with peers across Minnesota while leading outreach, editing, and curation. Ajay Nicholas spoke about hands-on experiences in the visual arts, from installing gallery exhibitions to curating senior capstone work, highlighting both creative independence and collaboration.

In theater, Ruth Civettini shared insights into their capstone projects and an upcoming production of Once Upon a One More Time, emphasizing that their work goes beyond performance. “We’re not just here to entertain,” she explained during the conversation. “We want to share messages that connect to real-world issues and make people think.”

Across disciplines, a common theme emerged: a focus on purpose-driven art and critical thinking. Students emphasized that they are encouraged to explore context, engage with complex ideas, and develop a deeper understanding of their work; skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

“As principal, I am asked to represent the school and talk about the work we do,” said Principal Rebecca Bullen. “I truly believe the greatest voice of impact is our students.” She added that hearing directly from students is “more effective and authentic than anything I could say,” noting, “They shared their voices, experiences, creativity, and leadership—it was inspiring, and I could not be more proud.”

In addition to meeting with students, the representatives (including Greta Johnson [Director of Boards and Commissions], Riley Roberts [Assistant Director of Boards and Commissions], and Erin Bauer [Special Assistant to the General Counsel]) toured other areas of the agency. They observed a Professional Development and Resource Program (PDR) Media Arts cohort in the Gaia building and also spoke with Building Maintenance Supervisor Aaron Culey about facility needs and upkeep.

The visit also underscored the broader impact of Perpich’s programming. “The growth I’ve experienced as a teacher through their programming has been invaluable,” said Kelly Jurek, a sixth-grade art teacher from Big Lake Schools who was attending the Media Arts cohort. “The training and support from Perpich Center not only address those gaps, but also helps me feel truly valued and seen as an educator.”

For many students, Perpich is defined by more than its arts focus; it’s a place where they find direction and belonging. Several described arriving unsure of their future and now preparing to leave, they have clearer goals, stronger confidence, and a deeper sense of purpose.

For Bullen, the day was a powerful reminder of that impact. “Our students give me hope for the future and fill my heart with so much joy,” she said. “They remind me why I am here doing what I do.”

The Governor’s office visitors saw, from student leadership to educator support, how Perpich’s ongoing commitment to centering student voices and fostering meaningful, creative learning experiences is making a difference.