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Caroline Barnes is ArtsFairfax’s Development Assistant, supporting fundraising activities and board management. She joined ArtsFairfax in November 2022.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Caroline worked in management for a locally owned staffing and recruiting firm. She has been active in the D.C. area’s traditional dance scene since 2014 as a dancer, dance caller, and organizer. She is currently vice president of the Folklore Society of Greater Washington and a past president of the Friday Night Dancers, the organization that runs the weekly contra dances at Glen Echo Park in Maryland. Caroline is a graduate of Yale University, where she earned a B.A. in English.
571-395-4617 | lmariam@artsfairfax.org
Lisa serves as Director of Grants & Services, overseeing ArtsFairfax’s grant programs, the Artist Residency Program, Arts for Life, Creative Spaces, and workshops. In addition, Lisa works closely with the Master Arts Plan Task Force to plan facilities and public art for Fairfax County. She also managed ArtsFairfax’s Imagine Art Here public art engagement projects. Lisa joined the staff of ArtsFairfax in 2009.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Lisa organized traveling exhibitions and coordinated loans at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. Lisa reviews grants for other local arts agencies and selects artists for local public art projects. In addition to her arts leadership, Lisa served for eight years as the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) Cultural Arts Chair in Fairfax County elementary and middle schools, Girl Scout Troop Leader, and is a member of the class of 2020 Leadership Fairfax. Lisa is a graduate of Georgetown University, and she holds a MA in Art History from George Washington University.
571-395-4626 | gshareef@artsfairfax.org
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Gaffar worked for George Mason University, as an Analyst and as a Zone Manager at Paradies Lagardere Travel Retail. His professional experience has taught him the skills to manage Business Operations while using his educational experience to make the workflow more innovative and effective. Gaffar is an uprising senior at George Mason University, majoring in Information Technology- Cloud Computing. Gaffar joined ArtsFairfax in August 2021.
571-395-4616 | lsullivan@artsfairfax.org
Linda serves as President & CEO, reporting to and working with the Board of Directors to meet the organization’s mission, goals and objectives. Linda provides overall management of the organization’s programs and activities, staff and fiscal administration. As a consultant from 2001 to 2010 she worked with over two dozen arts organizations, of all disciplines, in the Washington DC region. Linda came to ArtsFairfax in November 2009 as a consultant, and she assumed the full-time position in March 2010.
Prior to coming to ArtsFairfax, Linda served the greater Washington area as an arts management consultant, specializing in interim directorships, capital project development and all aspects of arts management. Linda has worked with museums and exhibition centers as well as literary, performing arts and multi-arts presenting organizations. Additionally, her professional activities include teaching fundraising for George Washington University’s Museum Studies Program and serving as a Standards of Excellence reviewer for Maryland Nonprofits. Linda also has served as a commissioner, board member and grant reviewer for numerous state and local arts councils. She holds a MFA in Arts Administration from Columbia University.
571-395-4625| jdubin@artsfairfax.org
Jackie serves as the Grants Manager, administering the various grant programs offered by ArtsFairfax. Jackie joined the team in November 2021.
Previously, Jackie worked as an Administrative Assistant to the Biophysics Integrated Review Group at the NIH Center for Scientific Review. She interned with the Gallery Guide program at the Hirshhorn Museum, creating the tour manual for the WHAT ABSENCE IS MADE OF exhibition. Jackie has also worked as a freelance artist and graphic designer, including a stint illustrating posters and web graphics for the Fillmore Silver Spring. Jackie graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park with a B.A. in Studio Art, concentration in Digital Media, and minor in Art History.
Manuela serves as the Digital Media & Outreach Manager managing ArtsFairfax’s social media profile and community engagement. She joined ArtsFairfax in August of 2020.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Manuela was the Social Media Coordinator for a small arts and crafts company in Costa Rica. Her professional experience at organizations such as The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Arena Stage, BalletX, PhiladanCo, and The Rock School for Dance Education has fostered a love of learning and passion for non-profits and the performing arts. Manuela is a graduate of The University of The Arts in Philadelphia and holds an MA in Arts Management from George Mason University.
Hope serves as the Arts Education Manager overseeing the Artist Residency Program, Arts for Life, and other special initiatives. Hope joined ArtsFairfax in June of 2021.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Hope worked as the Arts Program Coordinator for Marbles Kids Museum in Raleigh, NC. She also completed an arts education fellowship with the National PTA and interned with the DC Arts and Humanities Education Collaborative. Hope holds a B.A. in Art History from UNC-Chapel Hill and an M.A. from American University.
571-395-4619 | dmueller@artsfairfax.org
Debbie Mueller serves as the Director of Development at ArtsFairfax where she is responsible for all fundraising activities, including foundation and government grants, corporate sponsorships, individual giving, and the annual Arts Awards Luncheon. She joined ArtsFairfax in August 2021.
Her professional experience includes serving for 14 years as the Director of Development at the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture in Glen Echo, MD and for 11 years as the Foundation and Government Relations Officer at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC. Ms. Mueller earned her B.A. in art and art history from Colgate University in New York and her M.A. in art history from The George Washington University in Washington, DC.
571-395-4623 | amui@artsfairfax.org
Allison Mui Mitchell serves as Director of Communications, overseeing ArtsFairfax public perception, information services and advocacy efforts to promote local arts opportunities and resources to the arts and culture community, county and elected officials, media, and general public. She joined ArtsFairfax in 2022.
Most recently, Allison was Director of Public Relations for New 42, the NYC cultural nonprofit behind The New Victory Theater, a performing arts theater for kids and families on 42nd Street, and New 42 Studios, Broadway’s iconic rehearsal venue. As communications strategist and principal press agent and writer, she guided public positioning and media relations for New 42 and its leadership, as well as its artistic, education and creative youth development programs, including the publicity of more than a dozen international productions at The New Victory Theater each season. Prior to New 42, she was at Robinson Lerer & Montgomery (now Finsbury), a strategic communications and crisis communications firm.
Allison currently serves on the Board of Directors for Theatre for Young Audiences USA and on the Board of Advisors for Care+Wear. She is a graduate of The University of Virginia.
571-395-4623 | dstewart@artsfairfax.org
Dana serves as the Director of Communications & Advocacy overseeing ArtsFairfax’s strategic communications plan chief storyteller. In her role as an advocacy leader, Dana directs the local, state, and federal advocacy services. She joined ArtsFairfax in July 2018
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Dana was a founding partner and Vice-President at Cornerstone Government Affairs where she managed clients’ federal appropriation and policy strategies. In the non-profit arena, Dana led the development and implementation of The Washington Animal Rescue League’s communication department and served as a National Conservation Advocate for the Marine Fish Conservation Network. For the last three years, Dana has been a regular contributor to a variety of blogs and online magazines. Dana has a BA in Communications from the University of Kentucky and a Masters of Public Policy from American University.
The residency teaches middle school students about the expression of ideas through the artistic vehicle of mosaics. Student artists explore multiple art forms such as drawing, painting and sculpture to complete their mosaics, and select a specific ocean animal to be the subject of their artwork. This residency allows student artists to research and discuss environmental issues such as ocean pollution and convey their thoughts through a process-based project. Materials include ceramic, glass tiles and natural elements.
ArtsFairfax conducts free grant information sessions for each grant program to help participants to learn about funding opportunities and how to apply. These sessions are recorded and available on our website. Staff also provide one on one support to arts organizations and artists throughout the grant process. Additional resources are available on the ArtsFairfax website including guidelines, resources, and sample applications.
Refer to Toolkit page #19 to learn more about who can assist and provide guidance during this process.
With so many variables, (such as building condition, zoning and uses), artists and arts organizations should consult with Fairfax County staff in the Permit Application Center at 703-222-0801 and use the “Permitting” section of the toolkit.
Create a plan for a compliant project before investing organizational resources. Failure to comply with zoning or building code regulations may result in a Corrective Work Order or a Notice of Violation, which shuts the project down.
This virtual residency provides students the opportunity to recount a specific narrative from a historical time period of their choosing through Hip-Hop dance choreography. During the residency students learn about the history of Hip-Hop culture, its beginnings in high-needs areas in the Bronx and how it became a global movement. Students explore Hip-Hop through interactive storytelling, observing dance performance videos and practicing movement basics. Students then collaborate with the artist to select a theme, music, movement techniques and choreography for a Hip-Hop performance. This program empowers and validates the students’ points of view and enables them to communicate through dance.
Victoria is the winner of the ArtsFairfax $200 award and her piece will be displayed in Congressman Connolly’s Fairfax Office. Victoria’s medium for this piece is acrylic on canvas.
Heaven is the winner of the ArtsFairfax $300 award and her piece will be displayed in the Workhouse Arts Center. Heaven’s medium for this piece is acrylic and oil on canvas.
Lena is the winner of the ArtsFairfax $500 award and her work will be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for the next year. Lena’s medium for this piece is colored pencil.
Washington, D.C., has given much to the musical world beyond its best-known exports; Duke Ellington, and the punk, and go-go scenes. Musician, broadcaster, and historian Ken Avis explores the area’s lesser-known, remarkable, and fascinating musical avenues and why they could only have happened here in the DMV area. Film and recordings bring legendary musicians to life as Avis examines how social change, technological development, and business innovation shaped the sounds that emerged from D.C.—a political town with a serious music habit. Discover music, stories and facts…and a lot of surprises as you hear the stories of Music City DC!
Award winning percussionist, composer and educator, Tom Teasley, delivers his unique world of rhythm and sound. Tom has traveled the world as a cultural envoy for the U.S. Department of State and shares musical examples of his travels as well as stories of the cultures from which this music emanates. He is currently working virtually with the US Embassy in Port au Prince, Haiti on a series of percussion workshops in addition to music business presentations. Other travels have taken him to China, Iraq, Korea, Oman, Jerusalem, Bahrain and others. Tom will also share his work on creating music for theatre which has earned him seven Helen Hayes Nominations and three awards. The residency consists of many musical and instrument demonstrations and performances and encourages participation.
Pictures and Poetry is a fun, interactive, low stress communal gathering where the participants will view and write poetically about visually pleasing images that evoke an array of emotions and responses. Tammarrah uses images as a catalyst for conversation, healing, laughter and insight. Participants get a chance to bring their own images to assist in cultivating creativity for the community of learners.
Tap into your own creativity, clarity, and happiness. Moving Dialogues is a powerful way to come together, experience each other’s perspective, and create deeper meaning. Zero dance experience is expected—Moving Dialogues is for everyone and every body. Be prepared to: write, move your body, think, and play. Moving Dialogues workshops started at American University’s Emerging Arts Leaders Symposium in 2015. Founder Kelly King led a group of participating arts leaders to answer the question: “What makes me happy?”
Since then, Kelly has led Moving Dialogues workshops for businesses and community groups, including: Visit Baltimore, The Smith Center for Healing and the Arts, Goddard College, Washington Performing Arts, ReCreative Spaces, The Girl Scouts of America’s Keys to Success Conference, Round House Theatre, Anacostia Arts Center, YMCA leadership, Office Accomplice, and more.
571-395-4624 | kbansal@artsfairfax.org
Karan serves as the Information & Technology Manager overseeing the website and managing all office technology-related issues. During the past year, Karan has led many technology advancement initiatives in the office including transitioning every employee to a home office environment. Karan joined ArtsFairfax in July 2019.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Karan worked for Robotics Education and Competition Foundation, a nonprofit that focuses on robotics and engineering education for students from kindergarten to college and served as a research intern at NASA Langley Research Center. Karan holds a BS in Information Security from George Mason University.
571-395-4619 | bmacroberts@artsfairfax.org
Brenda serves as the Director of Development & Operations. In this role, she directs and manages all fundraising activities, including the Arts Awards, and oversees the organization’s operations. She works with the President & CEO and Board of Directors to set priorities and strategies in these functions. She joined ArtsFairfax in November 2016.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Brenda was Executive Director of the Broadway Rose Theatre Company. Before that, she worked for several years and held many positions at Young Audiences of Oregon and SW Washington. While at Young Audiences managed the Run for the Arts raising over $700,000 for arts in the schools. She is the Vice-Chair of the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce and chaired the Tysons 2050 event in 2019 and 2020. Brenda holds an MBA in Arts Administration from Golden Gate University and a BA in Theatre Arts from California State University, Fresno.
571-395-4625 | dstoebe@artsfairfax.org
Danielle serves as the Arts Education Program Manager overseeing the Artist Residency Program, Arts for Life, and other special initiatives. Danielle joined ArtsFairfax in 2019.
Prior to joining ArtsFairfax, Danielle completed internships with both ArtsFairfax and the Smithsonian Folkways Recordings over the past two years. She also teaches private music lessons to students in the Fairfax area at Crescendo Studios. Danielle has a B.A. in Music with a minor in Business from George Mason University.
Be the voice of the arts by joining ArtsFairfax and Americans for the Arts (AFTA) for the annual National Arts Advocacy day in Washington, D.C. during March.
Be the voice of the arts by joining ArtsFairfax to engage state elected officials to encourage their support of arts funding and policies that benefit the arts. We collaborate with Virginians for the Arts to promote participation in the January Arts Advocacy Day at the State Legislature in Richmond, Virginia.
Be the voice of the arts by joining ArtsFairfax at their annual Arts Advocacy Day in early April. For this event, we invite the general public and the arts community to show their support of the arts at the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors’ annual budget hearings. Prior to the 2019 election, ArtsFairfax surveyed the candidates on their views of the arts.
When the community provides success stories, data analysis and information about the needs, goals, and outcomes of art programs, they are providing key information that contributes to effective solutions and building strong communities.
ArtsFairfax defines advocacy as the process of educating the general public and decision- makers in the public and private sector, who influence policy and resource allocation at the local and national level. Government decision-makers deserve to be well-informed as they craft policy and appropriate funding. ArtsFairfax educates at the local, state and federal agencies and elected officials on the policies, initiatives and funding that impact the arts community.
ArtsFairfax uses Submittable as our grant management tool. You will need to login and create an account.
Knowing your community makes you the best advocate for the arts. Knowing the facts shows that you are not only passionate but understand how the arts impact our local, state and national economy and culture. Learn more?
Educating Decision-Makers = Advocacy
One voice has considerable strength, especially when expressed collectively. Educating and advocating for the arts can occur through many ways:
Category 2: Next Step Grant
Designed to be more intensive and tackle major issues, it provides technical assistance and funding to carry out a transformative capacity building project by providing consultant support before, during, and after the project. To apply, organizations must first submit a Letter of Intent and requires a substantial commitment from both staff and board of the selected organization. Possible Projects include:
Category 1: Organizational and Professional Development Grant
These grants help support and create greater organizational capacity to anticipate, prepare and adapt so that organizations can deliver and fulfill their mission. Possible Projects can include the following activities:
ArtsFairfax grants are awarded through a competitive process. The process begins with a staff review of each application to ensure its completeness and the applicant’s eligibility. Applications are then reviewed by a panel composed of arts professionals with experience in a variety of disciplines. The panel meetings are open to the public, and applicants are encouraged to attend and observe. Following the panel meetings, the Grants Committee, a standing committee including members of the ArtsFairfax Board of Directors, makes funding recommendations based upon the panel’s scores for approval by the ArtsFairfax Board of Directors.
