Julia Debettencourt

Julia deBettencourt has a diverse work experience in various organizations. Julia started their career as an Education Associate at the Chicago Children's Theatre in 2009, and later became an Independent Consultant, working as a Theatre Facilitator. In 2013, they joined the Snow City Arts Foundation as the Director of Academic Programs and later became the Program Director. In 2018, they moved to the Chicago Public Schools, where they served as the Executive Director of Arts Education until 2023. Currently, they hold the position of Chief of Staff in the Policy and Evaluation Practice at Bellwether.

Julia deBettencourt has a diverse education history reflecting their passion for civic leadership, arts, and international studies. In 2005, they began their undergraduate studies at Northwestern University, where they pursued a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Theatre and International Studies. This foundational education provided their with a broad perspective on global issues and nurtured their creativity and performance skills.

Following their undergraduate studies, Julia undertook a deeper exploration of theatre and its applications. In 2011, they enrolled in The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, where they pursued a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Applied Theatre. This program allowed their to delve into the practical and transformative aspects of theatre, exploring its potential in community and education settings.

Continuing their educational journey, Julia sought to expand their knowledge and skills in the field of education. In 2012, they joined the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where they pursued a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree with a focus on Arts in Education. This program provided their with a deeper understanding of how the arts can be integrated into educational settings to enhance learning and personal growth.

Most recently, in 2021, Julia attended the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago as a Fellow in the Civic Leadership Academy. This experience allowed their to further develop their understanding of public policy and leadership, equipping their with the necessary tools to make a positive impact in their community.

Julia deBettencourt's education history demonstrates their commitment to both creative expression and making a positive difference in society. Their multidisciplinary background enables their to approach challenges and opportunities from various perspectives, combining their passion for theatre, education, and civic leadership.