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