OUR HERSTORY
Announcing the FY 2014 Board of Directors
Red Clay Dance is proud to introduce our FY 2014 Board of Directors! As we continue our mission of awakening glocal Artivism through dance, our dedicated board members play a vital role in guiding our vision and impact.
RCD Board Vice-Chair, Belinda Farr
A dedicated advocate for child welfare, Belinda Farr serves as Red Clay Dance’s Board Vice-Chair with a heart for community impact. As a Prevention Specialist with Prevent Child Abuse Illinois, she works alongside DCFS and community organizations to promote child abuse prevention. With over 12 years of experience in child welfare, her leadership and passion for social change align perfectly with Red Clay Dance’s mission of Artivism and empowerment.
RCD Board Secretary, Jewel Sophia Younge
Writer, educator, and storyteller, Jewel Sophia Younge serves as Red Clay Dance’s Board Secretary with a passion for language and culture. A published freelance writer with work featured in English Journal, Rolling Out Magazine, and more, she also teaches Humanities and Composition at Olive-Harvey College. With her first feature film, Addiction by Subtraction, set for release in 2013, Jewel brings a dynamic creative voice to Red Clay Dance’s leadership.
RCD Board Treasurer, Rob Ellis
With a strong background in political science, justice studies, and strategic leadership, Rob Ellis brings invaluable expertise to Red Clay Dance as Board Treasurer. As Chairman and CEO of the Phoenix Association NFP, he is committed to uplifting disenfranchised youth in Chicago, while also managing large-scale initiatives at Healthcare Service Corporation. His dedication to community impact and financial stewardship helps drive Red Clay Dance’s mission forward.
RCD Board Chair, Erika Simmons
Meet Erika Simmons, Red Clay Dance’s dedicated Board Chair and the creative force behind Double Stitch LLC. As a co-founder and designer, Erika—alongside her twin sister Monika—has revolutionized crochet fashion, earning national recognition and prestigious awards. With a passion for innovation and community impact, she brings invaluable leadership and vision to Red Clay Dance, helping to shape our future in the arts.