When Sharon Ramirez receives her graduate certificate in arts management in December 2024, it will mark more than just another academic achievement. For Sharon, this milestone represents a culmination of resilience, passion, and a steadfast commitment to her dreams.
A proud triple major in history, art history, and studio art, Sharon graduated from the College of Charleston in 2023 with a focus on printmaking and medieval themes. But her academic and career journey was far from conventional. After a serious car accident and multiple surgeries at Roper Hospital, Sharon found herself reevaluating her goals and embracing a new path—one that brought her back to the College of Charleston.
A New Direction in Arts Management
“I really thought I would always be in grad history,” Sharon recalls. “But one day, I was in the arts building, and Dr. Keeney, the director of arts management, came out in the hallway and said, ‘I know who you are, and I think you’re going to be great in our program. Let’s talk about it.’ So we did. I agreed with her—it would be really good.”
Sharon’s decision to pursue the arts management certificate proved to be transformative. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, which includes leadership, data management, grant writing, and arts education, provided her with the skills she needed to take the next step in her career.
“If I could rate it, it was a 100-plus,” she says enthusiastically. “It didn’t take me long to realize that the wonderful program I’m in was key to setting up my businesses the right way.”
Building Dreams: A Museum and More
Sharon’s ultimate goal is to open a museum of World Religions and Thought, drawing on her deep knowledge of medieval studies and her love for art. “I’ve always wanted to tell the story of the medieval and Old Testament themes that inspire my work,” she says.
But Sharon’s ambitions don’t stop there. She’s also launching businesses in historic preservation and restoration. In February, she became an LLC on the art side and on historic preservation. With guidance from the arts management program, she is also setting up a nonprofit as a 501(c)(3) and transitioning her for-profit ventures into two S corporations called Pillar and Pillar Public Art, Restoration and Consulting Inc.
“I have this wonderful team with me that we have set up, and I’m so happy about where we’re at,” she says.
Sharon also gives credit to the amazing support she’s received from the Addlestone Library and Avery Center teams.
Giving Back to the College of Charleston
For Sharon, the College of Charleston has been more than just an academic institution—it’s been a lifeline. “The wonderful school I go to made this possible at all levels,” she shares.
Looking ahead, Sharon plans to hire College of Charleston interns for her businesses, giving students the same support and opportunities she received. “When I graduate and the businesses I’m pursuing are established, I fully intend to give back to the College of Charleston everything they’ve given to me,” she says.
Mentors and Motivation
Throughout her journey, Sharon has been guided by mentors who have left an indelible mark on her life. She credits Dr. Jestice in history, Dr. Ferguson in art history, and Professor Duvall in printmaking for shaping her academic and artistic pursuits.
Their support has fueled her determination to succeed and inspire others. As Sharon looks toward the future, she is preparing to apply for a fellowship with the South Carolina Arts Alliance, a step that will further solidify her contributions to the arts community.
A Legacy of Resilience and Gratitude
Sharon’s story is one of resilience and gratitude. From overcoming a life-altering accident to setting her sights on creating a museum and launching multiple businesses, she exemplifies the power of perseverance and the transformative potential of education.
“It’s a wonderful program,” she reflects. “The College of Charleston has been the foundation of everything I’ve accomplished, and I hope my story inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter the challenges.”
As Sharon Ramirez prepares to leave her mark on the world of arts and culture, the College of Charleston can proudly count her among its success stories—an alumna who embodies the spirit of innovation, determination, and giving back.
