Melisa Allen

Melisa Allen, an alumna of Florida International University and the Atlantic Institute of Oriental Medicine, has a diverse background in project management, arts, and education. Prior to her role at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, Ms. Allen was an educator for two years then a Project Manager specializing in emerging technologies like blockchain and web3 development. Her work led her to become a two-time speaker at the International Women of Blockchain Conference, a founding member of Protein Studios’ digital offshoot, and a guest speaker at web3’s NFT NYC conference. Ms. Allen has also been an artist and poet for many years showcasing her work worldwide in both digital and physical galleries, including features at Miami’s Art Basel in 2021 and 2022. Her work in the digital community led her to be featured by CNN’s Vault By CNN project for her poetry and achievements. Ms. Allen’s community-driven ethos serves as the backbone for her impactful work, particularly now as the Kravis Center’s Education Administrator. In this role, she leverages her skills to promote education and community enrichment through performance arts accessibility.

April Cheeseboro

April Cheeseboro was born and raised in Goch, Germany until age 5 and spent the majority of her childhood living in Killen, Texas and Montgomery, Alabama. Throughout her life she has been in the arts with a concentration in singing and dancing. April has a Bachelor’s in Music Education with Vocal/Choral Emphasis from Troy University, Masters of Music in Music Education with Vocal/Choral Emphasis from Anderson University, and Masters of Arts in Music Industry from University of Miami. In 2013, April moved to South Florida and was a music educator for St. Lucie Public Schools and the School District of Palm Beach County for nine years. She is currently the Arts & Cultural Center Supervisor for the City of Boynton Beach Arts and Cultural Center. April is a proud member of the first historically black sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, member of The Faith Center, band member for several Caribbean Carnivals, and a certified Zumba Instructor for LA Fitness. April is also the founder and CEO of April Cheeseboro Entertainment.

Julian Alexander Crewe

Julian Alexander Crewe is a multitalented management professional currently based in West Palm Beach, FL. With a robust background in business operations, financial analysis, and staff supervision, Julian has exemplified professional excellence throughout his career. While attending Dreyfoos School of the Arts, Julian majored in music performance specializing in the tenor saxophone. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Stetson University, Julian’s career spans various sectors, including corporate environments, retail management, and arts and culture. Currently serving as a Grants Assistant at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, Julian administers the disbursement of over $10 million dollars in funding to artists and art and cultural organizations. Julian is known for his innovative critical thinking skills and exceptional client relationship management skills. His commitment to process optimization and organizational growth underscores his effectiveness as both an independent contributor and a collaborator.

Amaya Estrada

Amaya Estrada is a bi-racial Puerto Rican and Black educator and artist based in South Florida. Originally from Northern Virginia, she earned her BA from Palm Beach Atlantic University and currently serves as a Resident Teaching Artist at the Norton Museum of Art. Amaya’s artistic practice explores themes of cultural identity and duality through sculpture, painting, and print media. Dedicated to fostering inclusivity and cultural representation, Amaya creates platforms that showcase diverse artistic expressions while encouraging meaningful dialogues about identity, environment, and social justice. Her contributions to the community include leading after-school art programs that support young artists in their creative development. Additionally, she founded an artist collective at the Norton Museum, facilitating collaboration and vibrant projects among local artists. Amaya is committed to elevating her practice and its impact within her community.

Miriam Naranjo

Miriam Naranjo is the Assistant Director at the Schoolhouse Children’s Museum, where she oversees daily operations and initiatives that blend education with cultural enrichment for the community. With a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Miriam brings a unique perspective to her role, combining her passion for cultural understanding with a commitment to fostering inclusive learning environments. Before transitioning into the arts and culture sector, Miriam served as an Operations Manager for a medical service company. In this role, she developed strong skills in project management, team leadership, and operational efficiency—expertise she now applies to her work at the museum. Miriam is passionate about the museum space, believing that the hands-on approach to education at children’s museums is the best way to inspire a love of learning, wonder, and exploration in children. She finds museums to be comforting and whimsical places for young minds, sparking their curiosity and imagination. As a mother of two, she is dedicated to fostering this sense of wonder, helping to create environments where children can explore, learn, and grow.

Mumbi O’Brien

Mumbi O’Brien is a passionate art enthusiast and community advocate. Born in Blacksburg, VA, she moved to Palm Beach County at the age of nine, where her love for the arts blossomed. Mumbi honed her skills at Bak Middle School of the Arts and graduated from Alexander W. Dreyfoos, Jr. School of the Arts with a degree in Visual Arts. She furthered her education at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), earning a BFA in Painting, before obtaining an MFA in Costume Design from UCLA. Though her artistic journey has taken her beyond Florida, Mumbi remains a dedicated supporter of South Florida’s creative community. She has worked with various art organizations in Palm Beach County, including Gavlak Gallery, The Armory Art Center, and Resource Depot. Currently, as the Community Engagement Manager at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, she oversees initiatives like Family Saturdays, the Institute for Cultural Advancement, Palm Beach County Open Studios, and the Council’s outdoor Arts & Wellness Space. Mumbi’s work aims to empower local artists and enrich the cultural landscape of her beloved South Florida.

Ewell Turnquist

Ewell Turnquist is a third generation Floridian; born in Lee County reared in Palm Beach County. His personal mission is to achieve a more compassionate society through a shift in consciousness and to utilize the energy of love, compassion, and empathy to inspire a world of joy. Ewell is currently a proud team member of the Box Office at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, where he serves as  a Customer Service Representative. Before making a career change to the arts and cultural sector in 2016, he was employed in the Hospitality Industry for 24 years. Ewell returned to college in 2010 and graduated from Palm Beach State College with an Honors BAS in Business Supervision and Management and as a member of Sigma Beta Delta – Business Honor Society. He volunteered for 10 years with The Preservation Foundation of Palm Beach in the capacity of volunteer archivist, and was awarded the inaugural John D. Mashek Jr. Volunteer of the Year Award by the Foundation in 2015. Ewell has a keen interest in arts administration, particularly in development and fundraising. He hopes to grow, gain experience through the fellowship program.

Arts Administrators of Color Fellowship Reception

Thanks to all who attended the reception and announcement of the inaugural 7 Fellows on October 17, 2024.