Helen Stichel (She/Her) 

Assistant Director for Student Development

Helen re-joined the Student Development team in February of 2024. Previously she worked as the Coordinator of Student Development and returned to MICA after having spent time as the Program Lead for Student Support at the University of Baltimore.

Helen has a background in fine arts and the helping profession which provides a uniquely useful intersection of knowledge and experience to support MICA students in this role. She received a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago with an emphasis in Art History and a studio focus in Metal Casting. In 2019 Helen received a MA in Museums and Galleries in Education from University College of London, Institute of Education. Helen had the privilege of completing her museum education work placement for her master’s degree at the Bethlem Museum of Mind, an art museum located on the grounds of one of the longest operating psychiatric hospitals in England. This experience was the start of transitioning her fine arts and education background into the sphere of health and wellbeing.

While metal casting was Helen’s first love, if not her last, her experience studying a processed-based art form founded in material transformation has continued to influence her career in the helping profession. Helen has focused her career around advocating for individuals as they move towards the futures of their choosing and loves bearing witness to MICA students walk at graduation every year as they continue that journey with the support of an incredible education.

Helen’s furry co-pilot in life, Colby, can be found residing in her office most days. Colby is a small dog of mysterious origins who adores to be adored. 

Eliza Mott (She/Her) 

Coordinator for Student Development

Eliza joined the Student Development team in Spring 2023. Prior to this position she worked at other arts colleges and community based contemporary arts organizations in Washington D.C & Miami FL. In these roles she supported the execution of educational programs and the install of large scale exhibitions. 

She is an artist, energy work practitioner and values alignment coach. Through these practices, she creates images and facilitates healing spaces that work to inspire reconnection to self, others, and the more than human world. 

She finds endless pleasure and joy in being a friend, sister, daughter, and granddaughter. Wonder is one of her favorite feelings. Surrender is where she finds the most healing.

The ocean is her favorite place.