Mission
CAP’s mission is to empower every child’s creative spirit, elevate arts educators in their field and advocate for access and equity in arts education.
Vision
Arts education for every child.
CAP’s vision is for Northeast Florida to lead the nation in providing essential and accessible arts education that recognizes, grows and amplifies every child’s unique skills and strengths.
History
CAP was launched in 1993 by a small group of individuals from St. John’s Cathedral in Jacksonville, FL. What began as one dance class for 10 students has now reached more than 33,000 children and young adults in Northeast Florida and beyond.
Staff
- All
- Office of the President & CEO
- Advocacy
- Finance & Administration
- Marketing & Communications
- Philanthropy
- Program & Fellows
- Strategy & Operations
- Teaching Artists
The Rev. Kimberly Hyatt
President & CEO
Kimberly is responsible for the strategic and executive leadership of CAP, making decisions with conviction, adapting proactively and delivering reliably.
She implements policies set by the Board of Directors and oversees the financial, programmatic, philanthropic and administrative management of the organization. Kimberly began playing the piano as a small child and remains an avid pianist with a particular interest in jazz. She found the arts to be a catalyst for change in her own life and is passionate about making the same opportunities available for all children.
Joined the CAP team in 2002
Expertise:
- Executive leadership
- Strategic growth
- Mission alignment
- Board engagement
David Anderlik
Executive Assistant to the President & CEO
David provides support to empower the President & CEO to advance initiatives and focus on higher-level leadership activities.
He is responsible for executive office management, board of directors relations, and administration, including assisting with employee onboarding and coordinating third-party events in the CAP offices. David has been involved with the arts for most of his life. He grew up attending Broadway touring productions with his family, took AP Arts and Theatre in high school and attended a liberal arts college before beginning a career in the music industry.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Communication
- Time management
- Reliability
Jessie Brabender
Director of Leadership Giving
Jessie Brabender collaborates with the philanthropy team to advance CAP's fundraising objectives, particularly through event sponsorships and major gifts.
She is responsible for leading CAP’s annual Golf Tournament and acquiring sponsors for the tournament at CAP’s signature fundraising event, Spring for the Arts. Jessie grew up with a deep appreciation for artistic expression, finding joy in the harmony of musicality and movement. She channels her creative energy into teaching barre and Pilates classes in St. Augustine.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Communication
- Donor stewardship
- Event sponsorships
LaRhonda Britton, LMHC
Clinical Creative Art Counselor
LaRhonda leads CAP’s sensory art and art counseling programs at multiple schools and community sites throughout the year.
She also provides mentoring and support to other CAP teaching artists who may have moderate to little experience working with students with varying exceptionalities. LaRhonda earned a master’s degree in mental health counseling and works with children in the form of art and play to provide healing from various mental health symptoms. As a child she moved often, and art provided for her a sense of peace, connection to the world and freedom of expression.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Mental health counseling
- Identifying and understanding needs
- Providing creative solutions
Peyton Bryant
Program Coordinator
Peyton provides support for CAP’s direct service programs by ensuring teaching artists and students receive the resources and support they need.
She manages the student database, coordinates logistics for field trips and guest artists, and leads the planning of the annual Visual & Performing Arts Showcases. Peyton has a long-held passion for the arts, but after interning for a professional photographer in college she found a new passion for capturing life’s beautiful moments through a lens.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Effective Communication
- Organization
- Attention to Detail
- Project Management
Dr. Lucy Chen
Vice President of Advocacy & Community Engagement
Lucy develops and executes CAP’s advocacy agenda and leverages external relationships in the community to advance CAP’s mission.
She convenes the Any Given Child Jacksonville collaborative, builds relationships with CAP alumni and families, and fosters a network of stakeholders to maximize the impact of advocacy for equity and access to arts education. Lucy began playing piano at age 3 and has continued ever since, performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City, St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London, and the Spring of Shanghai Concert Series. Lucy is also recognized as one of the Jacksonville Business Journal’s 2024 Women of Influence.
Joined the CAP team in 2021
Expertise:
- Community building
- Advocacy
- Strategic partnerships
- Student enrollment and retention
Jennifer Clements
Director of Marketing & Communications
Jennifer ensures CAP’s mission and vision are consistently communicated. She serves as CAP’s media liaison, helps plan and implement all marketing campaigns and manages the production of printed collateral.
Jennifer’s love for the arts began early in life, taking piano lessons from age 5, dancing throughout elementary and middle school, and singing since she could talk. She was a member of the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus and has performed with the Jacksonville Symphony Chorus, as well as in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Joined the CAP team in 2013
Expertise:
- Content creation
- Brand management
- Writing & copy editing
- Production & timeline management
Ashlee Collins
Petway Teaching Artist Fellow in Visual Arts
Ashlee provides visual arts instruction at multiple schools and community sites throughout the year.
In addition to leading students in the classroom, she is also responsible for planning and supervising class field trips, guest artist visits and exhibition opportunities at CAP sites and throughout the Jacksonville community. Ashlee grew up participating in the performing arts, eventually finding her way to visual arts in high school and earning a college degree in arts education and visual arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Primary/secondary education
- Classroom management
- Florida Standards for visual arts
Karen Demuth
Director of Music Therapy Expansion
Karen advocates for the benefits of music therapy in Northeast Florida, focusing on expanding private pay opportunities and driving initiatives to reach children with disabilities.
She is the founder of Connecting Thru Music, a music therapy nonprofit that was acquired by CAP in 2023. Karen has had a love for plays and musicals since she was a young girl. Though she has no formal training in the arts, she is always willing to experiment and imagine and has focused on the art of living an inspired life.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Advocacy
- Collaboration
- Creating inspired initiatives
- Music Therapy
Dr. Shaneka Ferrell
Director of Programs
Shaneka is responsible for student data analysis, arts education impact research and teaching artist support.
She supports recruitment, retention and evaluation for CAP’s part-time teaching artists and assistants and monitors programs to assess markers of quality. Shaneka spent eight years as a school counselor at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, where she developed a strong appreciation for the arts. She now regularly attends local exhibitions and performances throughout the community and is passionate about engaging in arts education research to promote access and equity.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Data collection & analysis
- Student impact
- Program management
- Arts education advocacy
Melanie Hammer
Vice President of Strategy & Operations
Melanie leads the development of the annual operations plan, facilitates and supports cross-departmental collaboration and works to ensure all decisions are made through the prism of CAP’s core values and strategic imperatives.
She drives the organization to build strategic partnerships that advance its mission and works with local and regional school leaders to explore innovative ways of strengthening partnerships. Melanie took dance lessons from age 3 through high school. Her entire 19+ year career in education has been in arts magnet schools, where she saw firsthand the impact of the arts on children.
Joined the CAP team in 2021
Expertise:
- Strategic planning
- Educational leadership
- Goal development and execution
- Organizational positioning
Elise Johnson
Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement
Elise advocates for CAP and arts education through digital media and special events, including management of the organization’s website and logistics of all events.
She expands CAP’s reach by engaging the online community through social media and shares meaningful programmatic experiences to effectively advocate for arts education. Elise grew up playing the guitar, flute and piccolo and has a lifelong appreciation for the visual and performing arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2015
Expertise:
- Digital media strategy & implementation
- Event & project management
- Relationship building
- Advocacy
Lyndle Lindow
Vice President of Finance & Administration
Lyndle is responsible for CAP’s financial reporting, accounting and bookkeeping, as well as compliance and risk management.
He manages the organization’s finance strategies and activities, including leading efforts to plan, update, monitor and implement the annual budget. Lyndle grew to appreciate the arts when he played the clarinet throughout middle school and into high school. Growing up in the Washington, D.C. Area, he frequented art museums on the National Mall, admiring artwork from the U.S and around the world.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Asset management
- Strategic planning
- Financial management
- Human resources
Jaqueline Peterson
Dance Teaching Artist Fellow
Jackie provides dance instruction at multiple schools and community sites throughout the year.
In addition to leading students in the classroom, she is also responsible for planning and supervising class field trips, guest artist visits and performance opportunities at CAP sites and throughout the Jacksonville community. Jacqueline has taught dance for more than 20 years and is the owner and director of C&J Performing Arts which offers instruction in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and tap for participants of all ages.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Production management
- In-school education
- Arts education advocacy
- Dance technique
Luisa Reis
Vice President of Programs
Luisa is responsible for the administration of CAP’s visual and performing arts programs. She supervises all fellows, teaching artists and classroom assistants, and is the primary staff liaison for program site administrators.
Luisa holds a master’s degree in educational leadership for urban schools and has worked as a classroom assistant, teacher, administrator and principal. She grew up with an appreciation for the arts, surrounded by a family of visual and performing artists, and shares her love of theatre with her daughters.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Program development
- Culture leadership
- Strategic planning
- Policy and procedure creation
Heather Sloan
Director of Administration
Heather manages CAP’s bookkeeping functions, including maintenance of the accounting database, financial and vendor documentation, and other organizational records.
Heather manages CAP’s bookkeeping functions, including maintenance of the accounting database, financial and vendor documentation, and other organizational records. She assists with employee onboarding, payroll, human resource matters and is the lead contact for the organization’s operations. Heather grew up with a love of the arts, taking dance classes since she was a toddler and ultimately earning a degree in art history with a minor in visual arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2018
Expertise:
- Bookkeeping
- Employee onboarding
- Vendor relations
- Office management
Joshua Stone
String Teaching Artist Fellow
Joshua provides string instruction at multiple schools and sites throughout the year.
In addition to teaching string courses, he provides administrative support to the Program Team and leads the CAP String Orchestra. Joshua began playing violin in middle school and has performed and participated in masterclasses with many of today’s leading artists and ensembles. His goal is to offer all children equal opportunities to play string instruments, no matter their background or location.
Joined the CAP team in 2019
Expertise:
- Performance
- Classroom management
- Conducting
- Multi-instrumentalist
Julia Veiga
Theatre Teaching Artist Fellow
Julia provides theatre instruction at multiple schools and sites throughout the year.
In addition to leading students in the classroom, she is also responsible for planning and supervising class field trips, guest artist visits and performance opportunities at CAP sites and throughout the Jacksonville community. Julia became engaged in the performing arts after a community theatre production of “Cinderella” as a child. She thanks the quality educators who recognized her passion for the arts that allowed her to foster her life-long love of theatre.
Joined the CAP team in 2024
Expertise:
- Arts integration
- Theatrical direction and design
- Community building and outreach
- Creative facilitation
Colin Walker
Manager of Philanthropy Operations & Annual Giving
Colin supports CAP’s philanthropy activities by maintaining the donor database, recording donations, creating fundraising plans and reports, and executing mailings.
He works collaboratively with CAP’s grant writer and other team members to provide project management for grants and program service contracts. He also plans and analyzes annual giving efforts to increase donor retention and acquisition. Colin began playing percussion in elementary school and performed in ensembles throughout middle and high school. He ultimately earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music, as well as a second master’s degree in arts leadership and cultural management.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Database management
- Analytics
- Prospect research
- Moves management
Doug Walker
Vice President of Philanthropy
Doug is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and implementation of CAP’s philanthropic efforts, supporting the development efforts of the President & CEO and Board of Directors, and managing a portfolio of select donors.
He leads the Philanthropy Team in retaining and increasing revenue through corporate, foundation and individual giving and grants, and manages all campaign efforts. Doug began an intense love of the arts as a child, playing piano from a young age and earning an undergraduate degree in music. He performed professionally as a young adult while also teaching choral music and art history.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Values-centered leadership development
- Constituent and organizational philanthropy
- Community engagement
- Donor advocacy
Calder Yates
Grants & Proposals Manager
Calder researches, writes and submits CAP’s grant proposals to a wide range of public and private external funding agencies and organizations.
He also prepares major gift funding proposals, including budget development, and manages grant and stewardship reports, as well as grants and proposals tracking. Calder is an artist, writer and educator, having taught in high school, museum and college settings. He comes from a family of artists and is a visual artist himself. His artwork has been exhibited in galleries and museums throughout California.
Joined the CAP team in 2024
Expertise:
- Storytelling
- Relationship building
- Institutional philanthropy
- Strategic planning
The Rev. Kimberly Hyatt
President & CEO
Kimberly is responsible for the strategic and executive leadership of CAP, making decisions with conviction, adapting proactively and delivering reliably.
She implements policies set by the Board of Directors and oversees the financial, programmatic, philanthropic and administrative management of the organization. Kimberly began playing the piano as a small child and remains an avid pianist with a particular interest in jazz. She found the arts to be a catalyst for change in her own life and is passionate about making the same opportunities available for all children.
Joined the CAP team in 2002
Expertise:
- Executive leadership
- Strategic growth
- Mission alignment
- Board engagement
David Anderlik
Executive Assistant to the President & CEO
David provides support to empower the President & CEO to advance initiatives and focus on higher-level leadership activities.
He is responsible for executive office management, board of directors relations, and administration, including assisting with employee onboarding and coordinating third-party events in the CAP offices. David has been involved with the arts for most of his life. He grew up attending Broadway touring productions with his family, took AP Arts and Theatre in high school and attended a liberal arts college before beginning a career in the music industry.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Communication
- Time management
- Reliability
Dr. Lucy Chen
Vice President of Advocacy & Community Engagement
Lucy develops and executes CAP’s advocacy agenda and leverages external relationships in the community to advance CAP’s mission.
She convenes the Any Given Child Jacksonville collaborative, builds relationships with CAP alumni and families, and fosters a network of stakeholders to maximize the impact of advocacy for equity and access to arts education. Lucy began playing piano at age 3 and has continued ever since, performing at Carnegie Hall in New York City, St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London, and the Spring of Shanghai Concert Series. Lucy is also recognized as one of the Jacksonville Business Journal’s 2024 Women of Influence.
Joined the CAP team in 2021
Expertise:
- Community building
- Advocacy
- Strategic partnerships
- Student enrollment and retention
Elise Johnson
Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement
Elise advocates for CAP and arts education through digital media and special events, including management of the organization’s website and logistics of all events.
She expands CAP’s reach by engaging the online community through social media and shares meaningful programmatic experiences to effectively advocate for arts education. Elise grew up playing the guitar, flute and piccolo and has a lifelong appreciation for the visual and performing arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2015
Expertise:
- Digital media strategy & implementation
- Event & project management
- Relationship building
- Advocacy
Lyndle Lindow
Vice President of Finance & Administration
Lyndle is responsible for CAP’s financial reporting, accounting and bookkeeping, as well as compliance and risk management.
He manages the organization’s finance strategies and activities, including leading efforts to plan, update, monitor and implement the annual budget. Lyndle grew to appreciate the arts when he played the clarinet throughout middle school and into high school. Growing up in the Washington, D.C. Area, he frequented art museums on the National Mall, admiring artwork from the U.S and around the world.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Asset management
- Strategic planning
- Financial management
- Human resources
Heather Sloan
Director of Administration
Heather manages CAP’s bookkeeping functions, including maintenance of the accounting database, financial and vendor documentation, and other organizational records.
Heather manages CAP’s bookkeeping functions, including maintenance of the accounting database, financial and vendor documentation, and other organizational records. She assists with employee onboarding, payroll, human resource matters and is the lead contact for the organization’s operations. Heather grew up with a love of the arts, taking dance classes since she was a toddler and ultimately earning a degree in art history with a minor in visual arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2018
Expertise:
- Bookkeeping
- Employee onboarding
- Vendor relations
- Office management
Jennifer Clements
Director of Marketing & Communications
Jennifer ensures CAP’s mission and vision are consistently communicated. She serves as CAP’s media liaison, helps plan and implement all marketing campaigns and manages the production of printed collateral.
Jennifer’s love for the arts began early in life, taking piano lessons from age 5, dancing throughout elementary and middle school, and singing since she could talk. She was a member of the Jacksonville Children’s Chorus and has performed with the Jacksonville Symphony Chorus, as well as in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Joined the CAP team in 2013
Expertise:
- Content creation
- Brand management
- Writing & copy editing
- Production & timeline management
Elise Johnson
Director of Advocacy & Community Engagement
Elise advocates for CAP and arts education through digital media and special events, including management of the organization’s website and logistics of all events.
She expands CAP’s reach by engaging the online community through social media and shares meaningful programmatic experiences to effectively advocate for arts education. Elise grew up playing the guitar, flute and piccolo and has a lifelong appreciation for the visual and performing arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2015
Expertise:
- Digital media strategy & implementation
- Event & project management
- Relationship building
- Advocacy
Jessie Brabender
Director of Leadership Giving
Jessie Brabender collaborates with the philanthropy team to advance CAP's fundraising objectives, particularly through event sponsorships and major gifts.
She is responsible for leading CAP’s annual Golf Tournament and acquiring sponsors for the tournament at CAP’s signature fundraising event, Spring for the Arts. Jessie grew up with a deep appreciation for artistic expression, finding joy in the harmony of musicality and movement. She channels her creative energy into teaching barre and Pilates classes in St. Augustine.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Communication
- Donor stewardship
- Event sponsorships
Colin Walker
Manager of Philanthropy Operations & Annual Giving
Colin supports CAP’s philanthropy activities by maintaining the donor database, recording donations, creating fundraising plans and reports, and executing mailings.
He works collaboratively with CAP’s grant writer and other team members to provide project management for grants and program service contracts. He also plans and analyzes annual giving efforts to increase donor retention and acquisition. Colin began playing percussion in elementary school and performed in ensembles throughout middle and high school. He ultimately earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in music, as well as a second master’s degree in arts leadership and cultural management.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Database management
- Analytics
- Prospect research
- Moves management
Doug Walker
Vice President of Philanthropy
Doug is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction and implementation of CAP’s philanthropic efforts, supporting the development efforts of the President & CEO and Board of Directors, and managing a portfolio of select donors.
He leads the Philanthropy Team in retaining and increasing revenue through corporate, foundation and individual giving and grants, and manages all campaign efforts. Doug began an intense love of the arts as a child, playing piano from a young age and earning an undergraduate degree in music. He performed professionally as a young adult while also teaching choral music and art history.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Values-centered leadership development
- Constituent and organizational philanthropy
- Community engagement
- Donor advocacy
Calder Yates
Grants & Proposals Manager
Calder researches, writes and submits CAP’s grant proposals to a wide range of public and private external funding agencies and organizations.
He also prepares major gift funding proposals, including budget development, and manages grant and stewardship reports, as well as grants and proposals tracking. Calder is an artist, writer and educator, having taught in high school, museum and college settings. He comes from a family of artists and is a visual artist himself. His artwork has been exhibited in galleries and museums throughout California.
Joined the CAP team in 2024
Expertise:
- Storytelling
- Relationship building
- Institutional philanthropy
- Strategic planning
LaRhonda Britton, LMHC
Clinical Creative Art Counselor
LaRhonda leads CAP’s sensory art and art counseling programs at multiple schools and community sites throughout the year.
She also provides mentoring and support to other CAP teaching artists who may have moderate to little experience working with students with varying exceptionalities. LaRhonda earned a master’s degree in mental health counseling and works with children in the form of art and play to provide healing from various mental health symptoms. As a child she moved often, and art provided for her a sense of peace, connection to the world and freedom of expression.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Mental health counseling
- Identifying and understanding needs
- Providing creative solutions
Peyton Bryant
Program Coordinator
Peyton provides support for CAP’s direct service programs by ensuring teaching artists and students receive the resources and support they need.
She manages the student database, coordinates logistics for field trips and guest artists, and leads the planning of the annual Visual & Performing Arts Showcases. Peyton has a long-held passion for the arts, but after interning for a professional photographer in college she found a new passion for capturing life’s beautiful moments through a lens.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Effective Communication
- Organization
- Attention to Detail
- Project Management
Ashlee Collins
Petway Teaching Artist Fellow in Visual Arts
Ashlee provides visual arts instruction at multiple schools and community sites throughout the year.
In addition to leading students in the classroom, she is also responsible for planning and supervising class field trips, guest artist visits and exhibition opportunities at CAP sites and throughout the Jacksonville community. Ashlee grew up participating in the performing arts, eventually finding her way to visual arts in high school and earning a college degree in arts education and visual arts.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Relationship building
- Primary/secondary education
- Classroom management
- Florida Standards for visual arts
Dr. Shaneka Ferrell
Director of Programs
Shaneka is responsible for student data analysis, arts education impact research and teaching artist support.
She supports recruitment, retention and evaluation for CAP’s part-time teaching artists and assistants and monitors programs to assess markers of quality. Shaneka spent eight years as a school counselor at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, where she developed a strong appreciation for the arts. She now regularly attends local exhibitions and performances throughout the community and is passionate about engaging in arts education research to promote access and equity.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Data collection & analysis
- Student impact
- Program management
- Arts education advocacy
Jaqueline Peterson
Dance Teaching Artist Fellow
Jackie provides dance instruction at multiple schools and community sites throughout the year.
In addition to leading students in the classroom, she is also responsible for planning and supervising class field trips, guest artist visits and performance opportunities at CAP sites and throughout the Jacksonville community. Jacqueline has taught dance for more than 20 years and is the owner and director of C&J Performing Arts which offers instruction in ballet, hip hop, jazz, modern and tap for participants of all ages.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Production management
- In-school education
- Arts education advocacy
- Dance technique
Luisa Reis
Vice President of Programs
Luisa is responsible for the administration of CAP’s visual and performing arts programs. She supervises all fellows, teaching artists and classroom assistants, and is the primary staff liaison for program site administrators.
Luisa holds a master’s degree in educational leadership for urban schools and has worked as a classroom assistant, teacher, administrator and principal. She grew up with an appreciation for the arts, surrounded by a family of visual and performing artists, and shares her love of theatre with her daughters.
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Expertise:
- Program development
- Culture leadership
- Strategic planning
- Policy and procedure creation
Joshua Stone
String Teaching Artist Fellow
Joshua provides string instruction at multiple schools and sites throughout the year.
In addition to teaching string courses, he provides administrative support to the Program Team and leads the CAP String Orchestra. Joshua began playing violin in middle school and has performed and participated in masterclasses with many of today’s leading artists and ensembles. His goal is to offer all children equal opportunities to play string instruments, no matter their background or location.
Joined the CAP team in 2019
Expertise:
- Performance
- Classroom management
- Conducting
- Multi-instrumentalist
Julia Veiga
Theatre Teaching Artist Fellow
Julia provides theatre instruction at multiple schools and sites throughout the year.
In addition to leading students in the classroom, she is also responsible for planning and supervising class field trips, guest artist visits and performance opportunities at CAP sites and throughout the Jacksonville community. Julia became engaged in the performing arts after a community theatre production of “Cinderella” as a child. She thanks the quality educators who recognized her passion for the arts that allowed her to foster her life-long love of theatre.
Joined the CAP team in 2024
Expertise:
- Arts integration
- Theatrical direction and design
- Community building and outreach
- Creative facilitation
Karen Demuth
Director of Music Therapy Expansion
Karen advocates for the benefits of music therapy in Northeast Florida, focusing on expanding private pay opportunities and driving initiatives to reach children with disabilities.
She is the founder of Connecting Thru Music, a music therapy nonprofit that was acquired by CAP in 2023. Karen has had a love for plays and musicals since she was a young girl. Though she has no formal training in the arts, she is always willing to experiment and imagine and has focused on the art of living an inspired life.
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Expertise:
- Advocacy
- Collaboration
- Creating inspired initiatives
- Music Therapy
Melanie Hammer
Vice President of Strategy & Operations
Melanie leads the development of the annual operations plan, facilitates and supports cross-departmental collaboration and works to ensure all decisions are made through the prism of CAP’s core values and strategic imperatives.
She drives the organization to build strategic partnerships that advance its mission and works with local and regional school leaders to explore innovative ways of strengthening partnerships. Melanie took dance lessons from age 3 through high school. Her entire 19+ year career in education has been in arts magnet schools, where she saw firsthand the impact of the arts on children.
Joined the CAP team in 2021
Expertise:
- Strategic planning
- Educational leadership
- Goal development and execution
- Organizational positioning
Visual Arts Teaching Artist Priscilla teaches visual arts at Don Brewer and Mayport Elementary. Priscilla Allen has spent more than 10 years as a language arts teacher and substitute teacher for Duval County Public Schools. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Georgia Southern University and is ESOL/ELA certified. Priscilla was a member of the United States Marine Corps for more than 10 years and volunteers extensively in the community. She is honored to combine her two passions – service and creating – as a CAP teaching artist and is committed to ensuring every student gains and maintains confidence, self-discipline and a love for creating. Dance Teaching Artist Taylor teaches dance at Chaffee Trail Elementary School. Taylor Baines began dancing at the age of 3 at Jacksonville Centre of the Arts. She attended Lavilla School of the Arts, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, went on to the State University of New York at Purchase College and ultimately earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from Jacksonville University. Taylor has worked with professional dancers and choreographers including Mia Michaels, Arturo Fernandez, Jennifer Archibald and many more. She has taught at Jacksonville Centre of the Arts and Douglas Anderson School of the Arts and is a current member of the Roar of the Jaguars Cheerleaders. Visual Arts Teaching Artist Lindsay teaches visual arts at Ortega Elementary Lindsay Bowyer is a long-time resident of Jacksonville with a bachelor’s degree in Art and Art History from the University of North Florida. She is pursuing a post-baccalaureate degree with the ultimate goal of attaining a master’s degree. Art has been Lindsay’s passion since childhood. She has visited over 20 art museums around the country and internationally and worked at MOCA Jacksonville for five years. When she’s not making or learning about art, she enjoys working in her garden and spending time with family. Visual Arts Teaching Artist Jacqueline teaches visual arts at the Youth Crisis Center. Jacqueline Cason is a former high school art teacher who has worked at nationally recognized colleges of art and design. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Florida and operates a private art studio in Jacksonville where she teaches drawing and painting to high school students seeking admission to Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. Jacqueline also teaches painting at retirement and assisted living communities and enjoys watching students explore their potential. Visual Arts Teaching Artist Denise teaches visual arts at Abess Park Elementary School. Denise Clodfelter holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Florida, with a concentration was in painting, drawing and printmaking. She has also studied ceramics, papermaking and sculpture. Before attending UNF, she was a student at Florida State College at Jacksonville where she earned an Excellence in Printmaking award. Denise is a long–time Jacksonville resident and was a founding member of the Riverside Arts Market. She loves sharing her joy of art with her class and enjoys seeing the love of art bloom in her students! Visual Arts Teaching Artist Stephanie teaches visual arts at Beauclerc Elementary. Stephanie Corley holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from California State University. After earning her degree, she returned to Jacksonville to pursue a career as an educator, working as a visual arts teacher for Duval County Public Schools. Stephanie has a wide range of teaching experience, including everything from pre-kindergarten to high school. She is an active painting instructor and loves hosting paint night events for her community. Sensory Arts Teaching Artist Patti teaches sensory arts at Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center. Patti Cowgill has been the Exceptional Student Education Department Chair at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts since 2013. She has been a teacher in Duval County for over 20 years, working with all levels of special education ranging from Pre-K to young adults. Patti holds a bachelor’s degree in Commercial Vocal Performance from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. She is an active supporter of the arts community in Jacksonville. Theatre Teaching Artist Marielle teaches theatre at Parkwood Heights and Spring Park Elementary. Marielle Erskine is a Jacksonville local who is proud to continue her work with CAP. She holds a BFA in performance, studying many techniques ranging from musical theatre to film to improvisation. Recently she has performed in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night and Aristophanes’ Lysistrata. Marielle strives to empower young people with creative processes that enhance their perspective and quality of life. The arts can strengthen a community and she has made it her mission to contribute to that by working with many other nonprofits including the Art League of Jacksonville, Figment Project and the Boys and Girls Club of America. Music Teaching Artist Moses teaches jazz band at Highlands Middle School. Moses Evans is a native of Columbus, GA and a first-generation high school and college graduate. In 2006, he graduated from Edward Waters University with a degree in music performance and taught middle and high school across the U.S. for the next 14 years. He returned to Jacksonville and in 2020, in addition to graduating from the University of North Florida with a master’s in music education, Moses won the inaugural Jacksonville Image Award for music. He obtained his second master’s degree in instrumental conducting and is working toward a Doctorate in Music Education from Liberty University. Moses finds great joy in teaching, helping students find their purpose with the discipline and structure band offers. Theatre Teaching Artist Sommer teaches theatre at Mandarin Oaks Elementary School. Sommer Farhat-Valent has been teaching for 17 years and is currently teaching third grade at Mandarin Oaks Elementary School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of North Florida and is certified to teach theatre for grades K-12. Sommer created and has run an afterschool drama club at Mandarin Oaks for the past 10 years. She has performed extensively at Jacksonville’s community theatres and acted in many films for local film festivals. Sommer is excited to share her love of acting with children. Theatre Teaching Artist Leanne teaches musical theatre at Venetia Elementary School. Leanne Gullo is a veteran elementary music teacher and performer. A graduate of Jacksonville University, Leanne has worked for Duval County Public Schools for 10 years and was awarded Teacher of the Year at Venetia Elementary School during the 2017-2018 school year. She is the co-director of Camp Theatre Jacksonville and has performed on many community theatre stages around the Jacksonville area. She is excited to share her love of musical theatre with her students. Dance Teaching Artist Di'Asia teaches dance at Springfield Middle School. Di’Asia is a graduate of Edward Waters University where she eared a Bachelor of Science in biology. Beyond her academic pursuits, dance has been a significant passion in her life. Di’Asia devoted three years to the art of majorette dance, which has allowed her to express herself through movement while also teaching her valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance and self-expression. She teaches science at Springfield Middle School where she inspires her students to reach for the stars in the classroom and on the dance floor. Visual Arts Teaching Artist Callie teaches visual arts at Cornerstone Classical Academy. Callie Honeysuckle is an experienced art teacher with nearly 20 years of experience in Duval County and 12 years as a part-time teaching artist with the Cathedral Arts Project. After being a stay-at-home mom for a few years, her journey has come full circle as she returns to her passion of teaching young artists. Callie’s commitment to nurturing young artists has impacted many students throughout her career and she is grateful to continue sharing her creative spirit to help guide and inspire the next generation of artists. Music Teaching Artist Jenna teaches strings at Kings Trail Elementary. Jenna Horan is a passionate music teacher specializing in strings. She studied music education and violin performance at the University of North Florida and is currently pursuing a Master of Music Education. Jenna’s teaching experience spans elementary, middle and high school, as well as her private studio, and she remains an active violin performer at UNF and within the local music community. Her teaching philosophy aims to inspire creativity, compassion, motivation, perseverance and a lifelong love for music in her students. Music Teaching Artist Sarah teaches music at Cornerstone Classical Academy. Sarah Morrell began her music studies in elementary school, including violin, cello, voice and piano. She continued her music studies at Samford University in Birmingham, AL, where she earned her Bachelor of Music Education. Sarah is certified to teach music for grades K-12 and has given private piano lessons for 36 years. She has led children, youth and adult choirs, directed numerous musical productions, and led children’s music camps for more than 16 years. Sarah has worked at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts since 2013 and was named Adjunct Teacher of the Year in 2020-2021. Music Teaching Artist Jonathan teaches Orff music at Long Branch Elementary School. Jonathan Parr is a passionate music educator who specializes in helping children discover their voice through music. He currently teaches elementary music and uses an Orff approach in his classroom. He will graduate with his Master of Music Education from the University of North Florida in Fall 2023 and has research interests in culturally relevant and responsive music education, teacher self-efficacy and wellbeing, and musical processing. Jonathan has worked as an adjunct instructor at UNF and leads the UNF Sound of the Sky pep band. Before his time in Jacksonville, he was a band director in Mississippi and earned his Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi. Joined CAP in 2023. Theatre Teaching Artist Olesya teaches musical theatre at Cornerstone Classical Academy. Olesya Shvets immigrated to the United States from Kazakhstan with her family when she was 9 years old. From a young age, she was surrounded by music; her father playing the accordion while her mother sang. It didn’t take long for her passion to become her career as she went on to pursue vocal pedagogy and music education at the University of North Florida. Olesya received her Bachelor of Music Education and has experience teaching at every level from VPK to high school. She currently teaches upper school chorus and music at Cornerstone Classical Academy. Visual Arts Teaching Artist Tony teaches visual arts at the John E. Goode Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Tony Rodrigues is a North Florida-based artist working in a variety of mediums. He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Atlanta College of Art, where he studied painting, printmaking and photography. Tony has exhibited widely for over 20 years in many galleries and institutions, including the Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville and the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. He joined CAP as a part-time teaching artist in 2014 and leads CAP’s Arts for Justice Involved Youth program at the John E. Goode Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Music Teaching Artist Aquila teaches chorus at Brookview Elementary. Aquila Tamaseu began playing the piano at the age of 4 and has performed as a soloist and accompanist for schools, churches and organizations. She has worked as an organist, pianist, choir director and administrative director and serves as a piano adjudicator for the Florida Federation of Music Clubs. Aquila earned a Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Southern California and received her Orff Instructor Certification for levels I, II and III. She has taught elementary school music in Jacksonville since 2007. Music Teaching Artist Michelle teaches world drums at Hyde Park Elementary School. Michelle Taylor has been teaching music for more than 20 years. She is a certified Orff instructor with a Master of Education degree and is certified in both elementary education and music education. Michelle has been a music teacher at Hyde Park Elementary School since 2009. She previously taught music at a private school in Gainesville, as well as voice lessons at her music studio. Michelle has taught choir, ukulele, world drums and general music classes for summer and school year programs. Music Teaching Artist Milton teaches chorus at Abess Park Elementary School. Milton Threadcraft is a Jacksonville native and local educator. A product of Stanton College Preparatory School, he continued his studies and earned a BS in Biochemistry from Florida State University in 2003 and a BA in Music at Jacksonville University in 2009. Milton is currently the music teacher at Abess Park Elementary School, where for the last nine years he has sponsored both the band and chorus programs. Having been a science and math teacher previously, he understands the value of having a strong academic core but has become a champion of the value of music in education. Priscilla Allen
Joined CAP in 2021
Taylor Baines
Joined CAP in 2023
Lindsay Bowyer
Joined CAP in 2022
Jacqueline Cason
Joined CAP in 2022
Denise Banks Clodfelter
Joined the CAP team in 2022
Stephanie Corley
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Patti Cowgill
Joined CAP in 2022
Marielle Erskine
Joined CAP in 2021
Moses Evans
Joined CAP in 2022
Sommer Farhat-Valent
Joined CAP in 2021
Leanne Gullo
Joined CAP in 2023
Di’Asia Hall
Joined CAP in 2023
Callie Honeysuckle
Re-joined CAP in 2023
Jenna Horan
Joined the CAP team in 2023
Sarah Morrell
Joined CAP in 2023
Jonathan Parr
Olesya Shvets
Joined CAP in 2023
Tony Rodrigues
Joined CAP in 2014
Aquila Tamaseu
Joined CAP in 2013
Michelle Taylor
Joined CAP in 2011
Milton Threadcraft
Joined CAP in 2023
Blog
CAP Awarded $150,000 to Expand Field Trip Initiative
Mar 1, 2024
CAP has been awarded grants by the Kids Hope Alliance and the National Endowment for the Arts to support the expansion of the Arts Integrated Field Trip Initiative which will provide elementary-aged students with free arts integration field trips.
Karen and Gregory Montana Announced as the 2024 Guardians of the Arts
Feb 1, 2024
CAP is thrilled to announce Karen and Gregory Montana as the distinguished 2024 Guardians of the Arts for their efforts to safeguard and advance the arts along the First Coast. The Montanas will be recognized at the 19th annual Spring for the Arts on Friday, April 26, 2024, at Epping Forest Yacht & Country Club.
Giving is the Gift Itself
Dec 11, 2023
Gifts come in all sizes, and for nonprofit organizations, they come in many forms — a donation of food or supplies, monetary support, the volunteering of time, or the building of relationships are just a few examples of gifts that sustain us. Without giving, the nonprofit community that enhances our community in infinite positive ways would not exist.
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