Terry Starks of Hartford
Terry is the co-creator of Hartford's Proud Drill Drum and Dance Corp, a non-profit with the mission to use sound, movement and artistry for personal development among youth. Founded in 2013 with co-creator/husband Duffy, Hartford's Proud aims to keep Hartford youth safe and out of trouble by giving them something to do during the times they are not in school. Terry has given thousands of young Hartford residents a creative outlet through drums and dance, as well as a safe space of their own where they receive support and guidance on life.
JoAnne Torti of Bethlehem
JoAnne is the founder and executive director of ASAP!, an educational organization that fosters creative, hands-on learning through the arts. She believes that when we honor children’s imaginations, invite them to create, encourage them to take risks, and trust their resourcefulness, they will become the empowered, resilient, and compassionate adults the world really needs.
Brian Walters of Bethel
Brian is the co-founder and curator of the In View Project of Danbury. This is a storefront art project that welcomes local and regional artists to showcase their work in vacant storefronts in greater Danbury at no cost for a two-month period. Brian has long advocated for artists in the community and collaborated with area artists, businesses and local government to build a sustainable arts and culture scene in Western Connecticut. Beyond that Walters has maintained a sculpture studio since 2003. His work has been exhibited internationally. Brian specializes in interior scaled work made from salvaged metal that he collects throughout Connecticut.
Derron Wood of New London
Derron is the founder and artistic director of Flock Theatre in New London. He believes that theater can make a difference in the lives of people and is a tireless advocate for making theater accessible to all members in the community.