Dear Junior Center of Art and Science Community,

Over the past two years, the Junior Center of Art and Science (Junior Center) has grown by leaps and bounds. This is true even in the face of a global pandemic and two separate and unfortunate fires at our beloved building on the shores of Lake Merritt. Clive Worsley, who recently stepped down from his role as Executive Director, guided our organization through that second fire to achieve renewed stability and reinvigorated programming.

Today, the Junior Center’s Board of Directors is thrilled and delighted to announce that Cybele Gerachis, who has served as Program Director since 2017, is stepping into the role of Interim Executive Director.

Cybele brings more than 20 years of experience as an arts administrator, educator, and artist in the Bay Area. She started at the Junior Center in 2014 as a Teaching Artist, engaging students in vibrant art workshops at 35 Oakland schools. As Program Director, Cybele has developed 21st century arts integrated programs, forged lasting community partnerships, and co-curated countless gallery exhibits at the Center. Her commitment to accessible, inclusive, and interdisciplinary learning experiences is evident in her vision for the Junior Center as a community space where creativity and exploration are paramount.

We are excited that Cybele has agreed to serve in this new capacity. As many of you know, she has always brought to her work a mix of inspiring leadership and a deep understanding of the creative learning potential of our youth. As Interim ED, Cybele is eager to sustain the Junior Center’s essential value to our community as we prepare to return to our building in Summer or Fall of 2023. We are confident that her expertise and proven dedication to our mission will serve our youth and our organization well.

We are deeply grateful for this smooth transition and for your continued support during this time of change. As an organization dedicated to serving the interests of youth throughout Oakland and beyond, we are committed to cultivating their curiosity and creative exploration through the arts and sciences for generations to come.

Onward and upward,

Heidi Quan, Board President

We will be gathering at 1528 Webster, a gorgeous co-working space in Oakland. While the event will take place outside on the veranda, we still strong encourage attendees to be vaccinated.

Price of admission is on a sliding scale from $45 – $75

Price includes all materials and supplies, along with one glass of wine.

Additional glasses and wine tasting may be purchased for a donation.

No experience necessary. All proceeds benefit youth arts and science education in Oakland.

Purchase tickets at: www.tinyurl.com/wineandwatercolors

Join us Thursday, Sept 29th from 6:00 – 8:00pm to celebrate art & community engagement! Our very own Teaching Artist, Joey Rose, will be guiding attendees through a beautiful still-life watercolor painting activity. Get the creative juices flowing with wine tasting and light snacks.

On Saturday, April 16th we participated in the Old Oakland Celebrates Youth + Creativity Block Party presented by Civic Design Studio, E14 Gallery, and Good Good Eatz! We made tote bags and buttons with the community and promoted our upcoming summer camps. We also joined OUSD High Schools in the OUSD Student Art Showcase and presented work from our Franklin, Emerson, and Carl Munck Elementary Residencies. Check out pictures from the event below!

Volunteer Counselors play a vital role in the success of Junior Center Summer Day Camp. They lead activities, help their campers with their projects, and ensure that each camper feels safe and integrated within his/her group as well as the larger camp experience.

• Be a positive role model 
• Provide leadership, guidance and support to your group of approximately 10 campers throughout the day and week
• Assist your campers with their projects, art activities, games,and outdoor play.
• Participate in other camp activities, including morning meeting, two daily snacks, and lunch as well as set up and clean up of project spaces.
• Team up with other CIT’s and staff to help create a fantastic experience for all
• Attend one day of mandatory training (dates TBD, 2022)