Higher Education Leader  International Education Strategist  Theatre Scholar & Director
Global Partnership Developer  Curriculum &
Student Success Innovator

All About
Crestcencia Ortiz-Barnett,
MA, MFA, Ph.D.

I am a higher education leader, theatre scholar, and international education strategist dedicated to building transformative academic programs, cultivating global partnerships, and expanding educational access through the arts.

As an Assistant Professor of Theatre at North Carolina A&T State University, I lead initiatives that integrate research, curriculum innovation, student success, and international engagement. My work centers on creating sustainable partnerships between universities, professional arts organizations, and communities that provide students with immersive learning experiences while advancing cross-cultural scholarship. Most recently, I founded the International Theatre Exchange Program, establishing collaborative relationships with the University of Ghana, Roverman Productions, and educational partners throughout Ghana to create research, internship, and cultural exchange opportunities for students and faculty.

My scholarship explores belonging, leadership, impostor syndrome, and the experiences of historically underrepresented students in theatre and higher education. These research interests inform my approach to academic leadership, emphasizing inclusive excellence, strategic collaboration, and the development of environments where students and faculty can thrive.

Throughout my career, I have secured funding, developed innovative academic initiatives, chaired curriculum efforts, directed award-winning theatrical productions, and mentored emerging artists and scholars. I am passionate about advancing institutions through visionary leadership, global partnerships, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a commitment to preparing graduates to lead in an increasingly interconnected world.