Welcome Norah Diedrich!

Artists in Public Schools (AiPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Norah Diedrich to the position of Director.

In her role, Ms. Diedrich will enthusiastically promote and advance the nonprofit organization’s mission to create artist residencies in Chicago Public Schools that provide expansive experiences for students, educators and professional artists resulting in art projects that are reflective of and often highlight the resilience in these school communities.

“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to bring the transformative power of the arts into our community’s classrooms,” remarked Norah. “I look forward to working with AiPS founder, board of directors and advisors, staff, participating artists, and schools to ensure the continued success of this important cultural and civic institution and the positive impact it realizes.”

Artists in Public Schools (formerly CPSLives) was created by photographer Suzette Bross in 2017 with the aim of integrating artists and cultural producers into CPS through paid artist residencies. The cost of these residencies, thanks to many generous philanthropic supporters, is intentionally maintained at zero-to-low cost thereby offering widespread accessibility. AiPS has partnered with over 95 local artists and worked in 96 schools, positively impacting 51,000 students to date.

“Our unique win-win-win model provides expansive art experiences for students, educators and professional artists in addition to highlighting the resilience and creativity in each of our participating school communities. I look forward to the addition of Norah to our incredible team as our organization continues to deepen its impact and expand its network of collaborators,” said AiPS founder and Executive Director, Suzette Bross.

Ms. Diedrich has over 15 years of experience working in the arts and culture sector. Prior to joining AiPS, Ms. Diedrich served as the Executive Director of the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block, Tucson, AZ; the Newport Art Museum, Newport, RI; and the Evanston Art Center, Evanston, IL. She was also the Manager of Cultural Programs at the Alliance Française de Chicago and Manager of Public Programs at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago. Additionally, Norah has worked as a practicing artist and arts educator with an emphasis in photography.

Ms. Diedrich received her BA in Arts & Communications from the University of Illinois Urbana / Champaign, Professional Certificate in Museum Studies from Northwestern University, and MA in Non-Profit Management from Spertus College Chicago.

“Art became another vantage point for them [students] to look at life. One of the great things we wanted to do is look at how we can support them [students] from a social and emotional standpoint and art was a major factor that came right into play for that.” – Charles Anderson, Principal at Michele Clark High School.

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