By Robin Giles ’12, Arts & Entertainment Editor

After everything Mr. Jacoby has accomplished these past 25 years, it’s hard to imagine another taking up the mantle as head of the Arts Department.  But just as we look back on his great successes, we also must look forward to the future of the department with hope and excitement.  Elaine Brodie, a teacher whom we all know and love, has risen to the occasion, and has entered into her new role with confidence and enthusiasm.  “Mr. J is certainly a hard act to follow,” she remarked.  “But I’ve had plenty of time to prepare.  This change has been in the works for a while now, and it really feels like a natural next step for my career at NA.”

While Ms. Brodie is known to most of us as a visual arts teacher, her passion for the arts extends far beyond what she teaches in the classroom.  She’s dabbled—and excelled—in almost every kind of art, be it in the studio or on the stage.  “I’ve played the guitar and flute, participated in the faculty dance program, and I’m in my own improv troupe outside of school,” she detailed.  With so much experience, saying she’s “qualified” to be Department Head would be a severe understatement.

Ms. Brodie’s excitement to be a leader is palpable, and she has already begun work on some interesting projects.  She has introduced a new class to the department, a film and video course taught by award-winning instructor Mr. Potters.  “We’re all really excited about it,” she said.  “A number of NA graduates have gone on to film school, and with a growing interest in the Annual Short Film Contest, it felt like the right time to add a course like this.”  She has also begun working with the College office to create a streamlined process for students who plan on applying to art schools.  “Applying to art schools is a very different process,” she explained. “By working with the College Office to make a guide, we’re hoping to make it easier for interested students to manage their applications.”

Overall, while we’re all going to miss Mr. J’s leadership, we can rest assured knowing the department has fallen into capable and eager hands.  A leader of equal caliber and personality, Ms. Brodie has what it takes to continue what Mr. J accomplished, and add a few twists of her own.