March Newsletter
Women’s History Month: March in Act-tion
March is Women’s History Month, and we want to take a moment to honor and celebrate not only the women who have contributed to and paved the way for future generations in the Arts, but also the incredible women who are part of ACT and help keep this organization thriving. In line with this theme, we are spotlighting Tiffany Miller, one of our recent team additions, as well as Aoifa, a talented student who traveled to California and received a scholarship at the Musical Theater Competition of America (MTCA). We’re also sharing a roundup of ACT’s recent milestones and events, including exciting updates about our upcoming Champions for ACT Breakfast Celebration.
Spotlighting Our Executive Assistant: Tiffany Miller
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we also want to take a moment to recognize the incredible women who contribute so much to ACT every day — from our staff members to our dedicated Teaching Artists.
This month, we are shining a spotlight on Tiffany Miller, our Executive Assistant. We are so grateful to have Tiffany on our team. She keeps the wheels turning and plays an essential role in supporting not only our CEO, but also our entire organization and the people who make our work possible.
Hear directly from Tiffany about why she chose to be a part of ACT:
“I am honored to support ACT's extremely dedicated, hard-working and talented students.
I often wonder what it would have been like if there had been a program like ACT when I was in middle or high school. My life might have been completely different if I had been exposed to such an incredible support system. I don't believe I ever had the confidence to pursue my dream of becoming a TV news reporter because many frustrated adults discouraged me from my "unrealistic" goals. As a young, impressionable person, if enough people convince you that the odds aren't in your favor, you might start to believe them
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Eventually, I gained enough confidence to chase other goals in NYC and DC, which exposed me to many industries, artists, and cultures from around the world. This journey has led me to where I am today—wanting to give back to our community and serve the next generation. I believe every student benefits from what we offer. Because ACT isn't just an art program, it's a community of caring top-notch professionals leading young adults into a confident life with skills they always had but will now know what they are capable of achieving.”
—Tiffany Miller
Executive Assistant
ACT’s Young Creators Alliance Takes the National Stage at the Musical Theatre Festival
Last month, our students from the Young Creators Alliance traveled to Anaheim, California to participate in their first national musical theater competition at the Musical Theatre Festival.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, 15 students and 11 adults were able to take part in the trip.
On the trip, students explored Beverly Hills, walked the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and visited the GRAMMY Museum—where they were excited to see ACT artist Alex Harris featured and an ACT mention!
At the festival, which brought together over 1,200 students from across the country, our performers participated in masterclasses and workshops with industry professionals before taking the stage with an unforgettable performance of Six: Teen Edition.
Their hard work was rewarded when ACT was awarded Second Place during the closing ceremony!
ACT YCA student Aoifa also received special recognition, earning the Future of Musical Theatre Award – Top Vocalist along with a $500 scholarship for college from the MTF Educational Foundation.
We are incredibly proud of these young artists for representing our community with professionalism, passion, and heart. The experience has already inspired excitement for next year—with 40 students already signed up to attend.
A special thank you to our donors, directors, and parents who helped make this unforgettable experience possible.
Student Spotlight: An interview with Aoifa
Musical theatre YCA student & recipient of the top vocalist scholarship at MTCA
As part of our Women’s History Month celebration, we are proud to spotlight Aoifa, a senior who has been part of the ACT’s YCA program, since her freshman year.
Most recently, Aoifa traveled to California with fellow ACT students to participate in the Musical Theater Competition America, where she had the opportunity to perform, attend workshops led by Broadway professionals, and connect with talented students from across the country. During the trip, she received a scholarship to support her college studies.
As a senior preparing for the next chapter — including plans to pursue musical theater at the collegiate level — Aoifa reflects on the trip to Califoria and the friendships, opportunities, and lessons that have shaped her journey at ACT.
“I was sitting there at the awards ceremony just on my phone because it was three hours long, and then I suddenly heard my name.
I was just really grateful. Whenever I get any sort of award or role, I feel like my intuition kind of tells me something is coming — so it felt like a release. I didn’t think we were going to win second place either, especially because there was so much competition and everyone was so talented.”
Excerpts From Our Interview:
What has been your favorite part of being a part of ACT?
“I really like all the opportunities they give us to perform. One time I had the opportunity to be in a short film, and it’s finally coming out now after a couple of years. I’ve also received a scholarship and may potentially receive another one, so it really feels like a lot of doors have opened for me through ACT.”
You recently traveled to California for the Musical Theater Competition of America. What was that experience like?
“It was really great. Everyone at ACT is amazing, so it was fun to build deeper relationships with everyone while we were there. Everyone is so talented and dedicated — I admire them all so much.
When we weren’t performing, we were hanging out, learning from each other, and enjoying the experience. There were also workshops where professionals — including people who have been on Broadway — gave feedback. I sang in front of a few of them, and they gave me really helpful notes. That was something I never would have had the opportunity to do otherwise.
There were also college representatives there talking about their programs, which was really helpful for students thinking about their next steps.”
As a senior, what’s next for you?
“I was accepted into Boston Conservatory at Berklee, so I’m currently figuring out the financial side of things. Hopefully everything works out so I can attend there and study musical theater.
This summer I’m also looking into some summer intensives and continuing to perform.”
What have you learned from ACT that you’ll carry with you into the future?
“ACT showed me that there are so many opportunities out there and so many people who want to support young artists. It helped me realize that the arts community can be very collaborative — we should be lifting each other up rather than always seeing it as competition.”
Save the Date: 15th Annual: Champions for ACT Breakfast Celebration
On May 7th, we will gather for an inspiring morning in support of our youth at the Champions for ACT Breakfast Celebration — a special event dedicated to uplifting the next generation of artists and creative leaders.
This year’s theme, Awakening the Creative Consciousness, sets the tone for a powerful morning that celebrates the transformative role the Arts play in shaping young people, strengthening our community, and opening doors to opportunity.
Guests will experience moving live performances from ACT students and hear firsthand how arts education is changing lives.
We are also excited to welcome special cameos and surprise appearances from community leaders, celebrated musicians, civic leaders, and philanthropic partners who share our commitment to supporting arts education.
Event Schedule
✨ 8:00 AM – Red Carpet & Founders Reception
✨ 8:30–9:30 AM – Program & Live Auction
Interested in sponsoring a table?
Please contact Dr. Alex Harris at alex@artsconservatoryforteens.org.
Recent milestones at ACT:
ACT Students Shine at the State of the City Address
Our ACT teens were selected by the Mayor to perform at the State of the City, and they truly lit up the stage. The State of the City is an annual address given by the mayor to share updates with the community and highlight the vision for the year ahead.
Performing at such a meaningful civic event highlights the powerful role the Arts play in bringing people together and celebrating the spirit of our city. Opportunities like are once in a lifetime.
This invitation is a meaningful honor, recognizing both the impact of our students and the importance of arts education in our community. It was an honor to share the stage with other civic leaders and organizations working to help shape the future of St. Petersburg.
This is an incredible milestone for our students. Thank you to the City of St. Petersburg for this wonderful opportunity and for supporting the next generation of artists.
A Night to Remember: Our Soul Train Costume Party
Last week was an unforgettable celebration at ACT’s Soul Train Costume Party!
The evening was filled with 70’s fashion, lively dancing, and the incredible performances of our students. From the DJ spinning classic hits to the live band bringing the funk, the energy in the room was contagious. Guests and students alike embraced the spirit of the night with vibrant costumes and creativity, showcasing how the Arts bring people together and inspire connection, expression, and joy.
Moments like these remind us why we do what we do — creating spaces where community, creativity, and culture intersect and where young artists can thrive. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us in support of our students and mission. Stay tuned for more updates on events!