A New Era for KATI
There are some tremendous changes happening at the Kutenai Art Therapy Institute (KATI). KATI’s founder and visionary, longstanding Academic Dean, Monica Carpendale has chosen this year, to step back and transition out of the Academic Dean role.
When Monica first founded the Kutenai Art Therapy Institute in 1995, she ran the school almost entirely on her own. As the school expanded, she brought on faculty and staff members to take on the growing number of training and administrative tasks. In 2018, Monica stepped down as KATI’s Executive Director and transitioned fully into the role of Academic Dean.
From left to right: Nicole Le Bihan, Monica Carpendale, Millie Cumming
Now, Monica is choosing to transition into a new role: Professor Emeritus. This honourable designation will allow Monica to continue to contribute to the academic life of the Institute in ways that only she can, teaching specialty course work and advising, while further reducing the kinds of management and administrative tasks that can be handled by others.
The mantle of Academic Dean will be shared by two exceptionally qualified long-standing faculty members, Millie Cumming and Nicole Le Bihan. This transition is underway and will be fully in place as of July 2022. Millie will serve as Academic Dean – Chair of Supervision, while Nicole’s role will be Academic Dean – Chair of Research.
While there are plenty of mixed emotions as Monica steps back at KATI, it has been incredible to see how well supported the transition is. KATI is very well positioned to move into this next chapter with ease.
During the 2022 Graduation Ceremonies, we were able to take some time to honour Monica, Millie, and Nicole. Each passed through a handmade ceremonial arch, symbolically marking this important transition. Gifts of art and poetry were shared in an emotional and heartwarming afternoon.
We are currently planning a larger and more public event in the fall of 2022 to celebrate this transition. We know there are many community members near and far that would like to celebrate and honour Monica. You will hear more from us about this event soon! If you would like to be involved in planning, please let KATI’s Executive Director, Lisa Heisler, know by contacting her at lheisler@kutenaiarttherapy.com.