Welcome to ARCA’s PG Cert Alumni Spotlight Series, a collection of in-depth Q&A interviews conducted by Dr. Edgar Tijhuis*, highlighting the professional journeys, achievements, and ongoing contributions of graduates from ARCA’s Postgraduate Certificate Programmes in Art Crime and Cultural Heritage Protection. Through these conversations, we aim to showcase the diverse paths our alumni have taken—across academia, law enforcement, museums, research, policy, and the cultural heritage sector—and to share the insights, motivations, and experiences that continue to shape their work in safeguarding the world’s shared artistic legacy.

What motivated you to enroll in ARCA’s Postgraduate Program?                                                         I first discovered ARCA through a Google search and immediately knew I had to apply. I was at a point in my education and career where I wanted to continue expanding my knowledge of the arts. When I learned that there was a field dedicated to art crime and cultural heritage protection, I began researching how to enter it. From what I found, ARCA was one of the only, if not the only, program specializing in this field of study, so applying was an easy decision.

Can you describe a moment in the program that had a lasting impact on you—personally or professionally?

One moment that had a lasting impact on me was during the Museum Security course. We had the chance to visit a museum in Rome and perform a security risk assessment, looking for potential vulnerabilities. This experience stayed with me because now, every time I walk into a museum, I mentally assess its security, especially regarding theft.

What was your favorite course or topic, and why did it stand out?

My favorite course was the Art Forgery Masterclass taught by Dr. Noah Charney. It reminded me of art history, which is my specialty, but with a focus on historically successful forgers. I found the topic so fascinating that I decided to write my capstone on a related subject.

How did the international nature of the program influence your learning experience?

Learning in a classroom is one thing. Studying in a foreign country is something else entirely. Going to Amelia was my first time leaving the United States. Although I was nervous, I believe the location made the experience unforgettable. Immersing myself in the culture and slower pace of life in Amelia was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Days felt peaceful, connections were meaningful, and it was the perfect place to spend the summer.

Did the program change or shape your career path? 

Yes, it did. I am still exploring what I want to do long-term, but I knew after the program that I wanted to pursue a career in cultural heritage protection. I am just still exploring how to enter the field. I currently work as an arts and engagement coordinator and also teach art history as an adjunct professor. I am now pursuing a PhD with an institution that holds international residencies twice a year.                                                                                    I chose this program because it reminded me of ARCA and the opportunity to study art in an international setting.

Can you share a memorable interaction you had with faculty, guest speakers, or fellow students?

As I mentioned earlier, the course with Dr. Noah Charney was my favorite. I was familiar with him before the program, so being able to attend his class felt surreal. He later became my capstone advisor and helped me publish my article in the Journal of Art Crime. Dr. Charney has also written letters of recommendation for me, including one for my PhD application, so I am grateful that our initial interaction turned into an ongoing mentorship.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the 2026 programmes?

Just go for it! I tend to hesitate and overthink, but with ARCA, I kept saying yes, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life. It can be easy to talk yourself out of something that feels scary, but take the risk and trust that it will be worth it.

How has your understanding of art crime evolved since completing the program?

I learned so much during the program. Before ARCA, my knowledge of art crime was limited and based mostly on one of my favorite childhood shows, White Collar. At ARCA, I learned the real mechanisms of art crime and cultural heritage protection, and I continue to use that knowledge today.

In one sentence: why should someone consider joining ARCA's programmes?

ARCA’s programmes offer an unmatched combination of meaningful subject matter, unforgettable location, and a truly transformative experience, all while advancing your education and career.

About alumna Santana Nash

Santana Nash is an art historian and arts professional dedicated to expanding cultural engagement through the visual arts. She serves as the Artistic Residency and Student Programming Coordinator at Georgia Tech, where she curates arts initiatives that connect students and local communities with creative practitioners. Santana also teaches as an Adjunct Professor of the Arts in Atlanta, Georgia.

She holds a Master’s degree in Art History from Georgia State University and is pursuing a Ph.D. in Visual Arts at the Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts (IDSVA), specialising in Philosophy, Aesthetics, and Art Theory. Her previous experience spans museum education at the High Museum of Art, curatorial work at the Georgia Museum of Art, and research in art crime, with published work in the Journal of Art Crime.

* Dr Edgar Tijhuis is Academic Director at ARCA and is responsible for coordinating ARCA’s postgraduate certificate programmes. Since 2009, he has also taught criminology modules within ARCA's PG Certification programming.