Welcome to Staff Spotlight! Get to know the dedicated staff at the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, who work year-round to support the success of the Scholastic Awards.
This month, we’re highlighting Associate Director, Institutional Giving, Laura Petrucci!
Describe your role at the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers.
I am the Associate Director, Institutional Giving here at the Alliance. I work with foundation, corporate, and government donors to find funding for our programs, manage our grants, and help implement special scholarship opportunities for teens.
What is your favorite part about working at the Alliance?
Getting to see the teen’s work is always the best, and a particular favorite part is seeing the themes, issues, or topics that arise each year. Some are fresh reactions to current events, and some feel timeless to the teen experience, and the Awards end up being a great time capsule of the viewpoints of teenagers.
What is your favorite book of all time, and what makes it so special to you?
Feels impossible to choose, but all the Neapolitan novels by Elena Ferrante were instant classics for me, and I loved discussing the books with the people in my life like we were in an unofficial book club.
What are your hobbies outside of work?
I like learning any fiber/textile hobby and have been crocheting, needlepointing, and dusting off my high school sewing skills.
Favorite snack or drink while working?
Currently, Lifesavers.
Favorite song or album at the moment?
Faith Crisis Pt. 1 by Middle Kids is a revolving work and car ride album in my lineup.
A Scholastic Awards alum who inspires you and why?
When I first started working here, I got to hear Philip Pearlstein tell his Scholastic Awards story and the lasting impact the recognition had on him, and his commitment to his artistic practice, was an inspiring introduction to the Awards.
Share a photo of your choice and tell us the story behind it!
Like many on our staff, I have an accidental collection of Scholastic Awards tote bags and even on a vacation people will say, “Hey! I won one of those in high school!”
