Arts Administrator

MA, Communication Arts, Montclair State University, Upper Montclair, NJ
BA, Theater Arts & Speech, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ

1997 – Present
Principal, Celeste Bateman & Associates, LLC, Newark, NJ
Past and present services include public relations, special events planning, proposal writing, arts and cultural programming, program evaluation, artist bookings & promotion for various clients in the NJ area. In 2005, founded The Nia Network, a program bureau that features performing artists, speakers, historians, and writers from the African Diaspora.

1997 – 1999
Interim Executive Director, Newark Arts Council
Presented seminars, salon series and other events promoting local artists. Prepared proposals to obtain public, foundation and corporate grants to support artists and arts activities in the City of Newark, NJ. Editor, NewarkARTS newspaper, a publication of the Newark Arts Council.

1986 – 1996
Cultural Affairs Supervisor, City of Newark, 920 Broad St., Newark, NJ 07102
Developed and implemented all aspects of cultural affairs and arts programming for the Recreation/Cultural Affairs Division in New Jersey’s largest city. Planned and presented over 80 programs annually including concerts, festivals, symposia, exhibitions, etc. Prepared proposals for public grants and corporate contributions. Served as liaison between arts community and city administration. Booked artists of national and international repute for local concerts, festivals and other events. Supervised Special Events and Music Coordinators. Co-produced and voiced weekly arts calendar on the local jazz radio station. Edited newsletter for the local arts council and wrote articles for several local and national publications. Co-produced/hosted (public access) cable television program on the arts.

1988 – 1990
Consultant, Time Capsule Communications, Inc., Newark, NJ
Wrote, produced and hosted cable radio program on arts and entertainment featuring musicians, actors, writers, etc. Prepared publicity campaigns and provided technical assistance to arts groups

1983 – 1986
Program Coordinator, The Newark Museum, 49 Washington St., Newark, NJ 07101
Developed and produced 60 public events annually for an approximate audience of 100,000/yr. Negotiated contracts and presented renowned artists from the arts and entertainment industries. Worked with the public relations department in the preparation of publicity and direct mail materials. Coordinated the logistics for museum special events and worked with various museum departments including science and education in presenting events relative to their exhibits.

• Strong communication, computer, analytical and organizational skills. Ability to work independently AND as a team player. Attention to detail. Professional appearance and demeanor.

Public speaking and powerpoint presentations

African Globe Studios, Association of Performing Arts Presenters (Formerly the Association of College, Board of Overseers, City of Newark, Gallman's Newark Dance Theatre, Governor's School, International Black Women’s Congress (1998-Present) Black Public Relations Society of Greater New York (1999-2000) Commissioner, National Association for Campus Activities, National Association of Local Arts Agencies, Newark Arts Council, Newark Jazz Festival, Public Arts Commission, University and Community Arts Administrators), WBGO-FM Jazz 88 Radio, Women In Media-Newark

English