Where the System Ends, CAA Begins. We Built the College We Couldn’t Find. CAA Story #10: Ann Lunt
DeAnna Pursai • April 27, 2026
When Ann Lunt was recovering from foot surgery two years ago, she came across a story about CAA on Channel 7’s “Localish” TV show and she immediately knew it was a place where she belonged.
“I love CAA,” Ann said. “Everyone is really friendly and the teachers understand us.”
Ann has lived on her own for 20 years and navigates to and from campus by herself. In 2002, she went deaf but was able to get a cochlear implant in 2003 which now helps her hear, however the hearing loss still affects her speech.
Despite that, or maybe because of it, Ann’s favorite thing is singing and music. Some of the CAA classes which she enjoys are Adaptive Guitar, Choir, and Music Appreciation. One of her goals is to get into the Songwriting class and learn how to write a song.
At age 57, Ann is proof that you never stop learning and growing.
“In this world, we need to learn as much as we can,” Ann said.
Ann is extremely compassionate and had the idea during Compassion Week to make video messages for foster youth. Growing up in group homes for nearly 15 years, Ann could relate to those experiencing the foster care system and wanted to reach out to them.
One of the things Ann loves most about CAA is socializing and making friends.
“I’m proud that I have friends who I can talk to,” Ann said. “We have each other’s backs and all root for one another.”
Ann is excited to continue her learning journey and hopes that one day she might become an Associate Professor at CAA.
“I love CAA,” Ann said. “Everyone is really friendly and the teachers understand us.”
Ann has lived on her own for 20 years and navigates to and from campus by herself. In 2002, she went deaf but was able to get a cochlear implant in 2003 which now helps her hear, however the hearing loss still affects her speech.
Despite that, or maybe because of it, Ann’s favorite thing is singing and music. Some of the CAA classes which she enjoys are Adaptive Guitar, Choir, and Music Appreciation. One of her goals is to get into the Songwriting class and learn how to write a song.
At age 57, Ann is proof that you never stop learning and growing.
“In this world, we need to learn as much as we can,” Ann said.
Ann is extremely compassionate and had the idea during Compassion Week to make video messages for foster youth. Growing up in group homes for nearly 15 years, Ann could relate to those experiencing the foster care system and wanted to reach out to them.
One of the things Ann loves most about CAA is socializing and making friends.
“I’m proud that I have friends who I can talk to,” Ann said. “We have each other’s backs and all root for one another.”
Ann is excited to continue her learning journey and hopes that one day she might become an Associate Professor at CAA.
James walked into CAA's site in 2018 and transformed our school!!
CAA student Lina loves art, learning, and making new friends.
When Professor Eliza Riley first got involved at CAA, it was very different from what it is today. In fact, she has been part of the community ever since the founding in 2009. Over the years, she has watched the CAA community grow, evolve, and continue creating a place where people can express themselves freely and confidently. Long before she began teaching, Professor Eliza served on CAA’s board, helping with fundraising efforts and supporting the community however she could. At the time, she never imagined that one day she would sign up to be a teacher. But with encouragement from her fellow board members, she eventually found her place as a professor. Today, she helps teach two acting classes, and loves sharing the uniqueness of theater with students each week. Professor Eliza fell in love with the performing arts because it gives the performer the freedom to become anyone that they want on stage. For Professor Eliza, theater is a place where she feels like her labels and limitations disappear. She says that when she is performing, her rare disease and the wheelchair no longer defines who she is. Outside the classroom, Professor Eliza is known for bringing warmth and a calming energy to those around her. She often used to bring her dog to classes because his presence helped her stay relaxed and grounded. Although her dog is getting older now and she does not bring him in as often, everyone still asks how he is and why he isn’t in class. After so many years with CAA, Professor Eliza continues to be an important part of its story. From board member to teacher, mentor, and longtime community member, her journey reflects what CAA is all about: finding belonging, confidence, and joy through the arts. — Written by Nina Pal Volunteer
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