Julia Torres Barden is a photographer, journalist, and advocate. A survivor of trauma, she has spent her life learning to embody a spirit of resilience, and how best to advocate for others who’ve had similar experiences.
Trace Wilson is a children's author, public speaker, model, actor, and marketing and advertising professional who was born with one hand. As the "Bionic Author," Wilson shares with his young audiences the message of embracing what makes them unique.
Noah Scalin is a visual artist based in Richmond, Virginia. Best known for his viral blog “Skull a Day,” he produces work for shows and galleries and teaches workshops on the creative process.
Bill Martin is the Executive Director of The Valentine in Richmond, Virginia. He works to translate The Valentine's archives—from photographs to clothing to papers and more—into complex and compelling narratives about the city.
Princess Johnson is the Founding Director of Royal Expressions Contemporary Ballet in Greensboro, North Carolina. As a teacher, dancer, and choreographer, she inspires movement in her colleagues, students, and children throughout Greensboro.
Carol Piersol is the Artistic Director of 5th Wall Theatre in Richmond, Virginia. In her career and in the work she produces, she searches for truths about humanity and acts from her gut instincts.
Quilla (Anna Luisa Daigneault) is a vocalist, songwriter, producer, and linguistic anthropologist. She weaves her love of music, language, and visual aesthetics to define her musical identity.
Terry Menefee Gau, Director of Programs and Outreach for CultureWorks Richmond and ArtoberVA, advocates for arts and culture in the Richmond region, using her capacity for storytelling and connecting people to help build her cultural community.
As a performer, conductor, and administrator, Music Director Dmitry Sitkovetsky of the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra manages a variety of responsibilities, all while maintaining the focus needed to produce orchestral magic on stage.
Preston Lane, Founding Artistic Director of Triad Stage in Greensboro, NC, guides the theater’s mission, programming, and operations to build a community-responsive theater.