Matt Neylon, 33, Chief Talent & Experience Officer at The Mount Vernon School

Matt Neylon has worn many hats since moving to Atlanta. From professional musician to all-around student champion, this Sandy Springs resident strives to connect people, perspectives and passions. In the last two years, he has transformed the culture of The Mount Vernon School as their Chief Talent & Experience Officer to thread the arts in the classroom, creating a norm for teachers to provide additional connections to deeper learning.

As Chief Talent & Experience Officer for The Mount Vernon School, why is it important to provide a space for creativity and collaboration for teachers and students?

Creativity is the spark that ignites our passion and curiosity. When we engage in project-based learning, creativity is the ingredient that allows students and teachers to put their fingerprints on their work and make it personal. Multiple ideas and diverse teams are the only way we are going to generate equitable ideas and create solutions that drive innovation.

What are the benefits of incorporating the arts into the classroom?

The arts allow students to engage in multiple modalities, integrate multiple disciplines, meet diverse creators and illuminate diverse narratives that we might not otherwise encounter, which helps enhance learning and connect ideas. Most importantly, the arts build community by sharing our stories, identities, ideas and emotions in ways that surprise, heal and inspire.

What are some organizations/ways you like to give back to the community?

I’m currently in Leadership Sandy Springs learning more about my community and connecting with some incredible leaders. In my eight years as an ATLien, I’ve volunteered with several churches including SafeHouse, OaksATL and Woodland Gardens. I serve on the board of the Young Naperville Singers children’s chorus and lead worship at The Village Church in Hapeville, Georgia.