TALK OF GREENWOOD
Dr. Jerry Goodwin
Featured Image. Michelle Burdex has been named to the 2023-24 National Leader of Color Fellowship program. Photo Provided
Michelle Burdex, program coordinator for the Greenwood Cultural Center, has been accepted into the 2023-24 National Leaders of Color Fellows program. She will join 53 other leaders from across the country in a leadership development program.
“Being part of a cohort designed for BIPOC artists and arts administrators offers a unique and intentional opportunity for growth, support, and networking within the arts community,” said Burdex.
During her 25 years at the GCC, Burdex has led in the development of initiatives such as the Young Entrepreneurs’ Summer Program, GCC’s Performing Arts Program, and the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools Summer and After-School Program. She has served as a storyteller and tour guide for the Greenwood area. Particularly, she served as a guide for Pres. Joe Biden during his visit to Tulsa to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 1921 Race Massacre.
M-AAA said, “(Burdex) gift lies in educating about the tragic legacy of the massacre and the resilience of Black Wall Street, weaving together narratives that resonate deeply.”
Burdex is one of six delegates chosen to represent a six-state region of the Mid-America Arts Alliance. The six states are Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas. This is the second year for the program.
“The impressive efforts that these arts and cultural leaders have already contributed to the communities that they serve truly inspires us. The impact of their work deserves national attention and support. Our goal is to give them more opportunities to share best practices and create meaningful connections across the country,” said Todd Stein, president and CEO at Mid-America Arts Alliance.
According to the press release, the eight-month program aims to establish multicultural leadership in the creative and cultural sector, providing fellows with access to specialists, strategic learning objectives focused on anti-racist and culturally oriented leadership practices, and opportunities for national-level networking and cohort building.
“Participating in this program offers not only a structured learning experience but also a pathway to long-term engagement, collaboration, and contribution within the arts sector. I am truly honored and appreciate the chance to grow professionally and increase access to the arts in my community,” said Burdex.
The sponsorship of the program includes the United States Regional Arts Organizations comprised of five U. S. regional arts organizations, including Mid-America Arts Alliance, and the Western States Arts Federation.
