Patsy Adams          

Gallery Director & Academy Administrator

Patsy Collins Adams keeps NOAFA's expanding operation running smoothly each and every day with a love for and a dedication to the Academy, its faculty, staff and students. From the finances of the business to the maintenance of the facilities, the hanging of the shows to the scheduling of the classes, Patsy does it all. She is a graduate of the Newcomb Art School, Tulane University. Her career in the art world ranges from teaching in the public and private schools to a job as the assistant director of Galerie Simonne Stern. She joined the Academy as its first full-time staff member in 1985.

In 1985, the school had expanded and had set a path for even greater growth. More students. More studios. More gallery exhibitions. It was at this time that just the right person, Patsy Collins Adams became available to help the Academy grow.

Patsy graduated from Newcomb Art School, had four years of experience as assistant director of Galerie Simonne Stern, plus some years managing the new City Club in the Poydras Center. She was the perfect candidate for the Academy -- an artist who had the business acumen to run both a top gallery and a busy executive club.

From the first day Patsy has been invaluable in the business operations of the Academy and one of the guiding forces in the evolution of the Academy Gallery.

Patsy's greatest gift to the Academy has been her perfect balance of management skills with her kindness and caring human qualities. Patsy's happy disposition and readiness to meet the needs of everyone have set a special tone for the Academy and endeared her to all -- students, faculty and staff. She is confidante one minute, advisor and counselor the next and problem solver always. Her contribution to NOAFA's past has helped form its present and her contribution to the present will shape the Academy's future.