Exciting News: WESTAF Welcomes Expanded Social Responsibility and Inclusion Team

WESTAF’s Social Responsibility and Inclusion (SRI) team is growing! Led by Director of Social Responsibility Anika Tené, the expanded team will support existing equity work in the region as well as new initiatives, including new technical assistance grant programs, deeper investment in the Leaders of Color Network, and the development of equity-centered tools and resources to further the work of WESTAF-region states and jurisdictions.

In the coming months, the expanded team will unveil new approaches and philosophies around their work and share the different ways for the region to engage with them.Josh Ellis, Grants and Inclusion Manager

With a proven track record of both local and state grants involvement and community advocacy, Josh Ellis is currently part of the equity committee on the Arlington Commission for the Arts. Ellis brings experience in award cycle management and equity-based strategies for arts education programs. He is also a trombonist and singer. Ellis lives in Arlington, Virginia.

 
Sierra Scott, Grants Specialist
Sierra Scott is an expert in grants cycle management at state and local arts agencies, with an emphasis on federal re-granting programs. Scott brings over 20 years of various arts and culture industry experience and leads a theater company and has years of experience as an actress and casting director. Scott lives in Reno, Nevada.
 

Marcelina Ramirez, Social Responsibility and Inclusion Coordinator

Marcelina “Lina” Ramirez is an experienced higher education administrator. Ramirez is an active member of the Colorado theater community, as well as a professional actress and dancer. As a poet and playwright, her work has been published and produced throughout Colorado. Ramirez lives in Colorado Springs, Colorado.