For more than five decades, the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) has been shaping the next generation of artists, musicians, and performers. Behind the scenes, the NOCCA Foundation has played a crucial role in ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive. As NOCCA’s nonprofit partner, the Foundation provides vital financial support for students, faculty, and programs that extend beyond what the state can fund.
“We provide supplemental funding for our students that includes money for college application fees, summer study programs, private lessons, and emergency funding for food [and family] support,” explains Adonis Rose, the Foundation’s executive director and a NOCCA alum.
A Mission to Empower Young Artists
The NOCCA Foundation was established alongside the school in the 1970s, and today, it continues to uphold its mission: to champion NOCCA by building partnerships and investing in young artists, their mentors, alumni, and the community. Through a variety of initiatives, the Foundation provides critical support in areas such as student scholarships, classroom supplies, and funding for specialized training programs. “It’s about the students,” Rose emphasizes. “It’s about supporting them and providing what they need right now and in the future.”
Among the Foundation’s key programs is its Artist-in-Residence initiative, which brings over 100 professional artists to NOCCA each year to provide hands-on learning experiences. The Foundation also helps fund summer study opportunities, allowing students to attend prestigious arts programs worldwide, from Switzerland to Japan.
In addition to these direct student support initiatives, the Foundation also plays a crucial role in maintaining and upgrading NOCCA’s facilities and equipment. From replacing aging musical instruments to updating technology for media arts students, the Foundation ensures that students have access to the best possible resources. “[We want to be] aligned with the times and the needs of the students,” Rose says. “[That means] looking towards the future and seeing what additional resources they may need.”
A Personal Connection
As a NOCCA alum, Rose brings a deep personal commitment to his role. “It’s a full-circle moment for me,” he says. “I know what these students need because I was in their position at one time. [NOCCA] changed my life.”
Rose’s leadership ensures that the Foundation continues to evolve to meet students’ needs, including investing in new technology and expanding community outreach efforts. A recent partnership with the New Orleans Jazz Museum, for example, will feature performances by NOCCA alumni, students, and faculty as part of the museum’s Thursday concert series. Beyond the concert series, the Foundation is actively seeking to build relationships with local and national arts organizations to provide students with more performance and exhibition opportunities.
Supporting the Future of NOCCA
The NOCCA Foundation is always looking for ways to grow and engage the community. One of its signature events, the annual ART&SOUL Gala, is set to take place on May 17, 2025. This highly anticipated event will showcase performances by NOCCA alumni, including Sasha Masakowski, Preservation Hall, and Big Sam’s Funky Nation.
For those looking to support NOCCA’s mission, Rose encourages community involvement. “People can follow us on social media, visit our website, and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about our programs and events. And, of course, donations [are always welcome.]”
NOCCA’s legacy is built on the talents of its students and the support of the community, and the Foundation is committed to fostering the next generation of artists, ensuring they have the tools and opportunities to thrive. As the organization celebrates 50 years of impact, its commitment to fostering creativity and artistic excellence remains as strong as ever.
To learn more about the NOCCA Foundation and how you can support its mission, visit nocafoundation.org.