The Sphinx Organization’s Sphinx LEAD Program Names 2023/24 Cohort 

With the aim to empower the next generation of executive leaders, the two-year leadership program has selected 11 arts administrators

Founded in 1997, the Sphinx Organization is a social justice group working to increase the representation of Black and Latinx artists in classical music — recognizing excellence in beginner and classical music professionals to cultural entrepreneurs and administrators.

Its annual Sphinx LEAD (Leaders in Excellence, Arts & Diversity) program has seen many Black and Latinx arts leaders participate in a curriculum including mentorship, networking, and leadership retreats at national institutions. 

Participants for Sphinx LEAD’s fifth cohort are:

Daniel Acosta — Advertising and Sales Manager | The Dallas Opera

Jennifer Arnold — Artistic Advisor | Richmond Symphony

Dorian Block — Social Media Manager | The Dallas Opera

Brittney Bryanna Burgess — Director of Operations | Buffalo String Works

Rae De Vine — Manager of Program Operations, Education | The Metropolitan Opera

Dr. Phillip A. Ducreay, Program Manager | The Nashville Symphony

Mariah C. Forde — PR and Social Media Manager | New World Symphony

Dr. Lori C. Hicks — Owner/CEO | LCH Studios

Zuly Inirio — Associate Director | University of Pittsburgh Center for Ethnic Studies Research (CESR) | Founder of Afro-Latinx Song & Opera Project

Carmen Marquez — Heartstrings Instrumental Associate | Pacific Symphony 

Jarrod Williams — Director of Leadership Giving | Dayton Performing Arts Alliance

Over the next two years, these participants will attend eight leadership retreats, and receive professional mentorship, travel, accommodation, and travel stipends. 

For the retreats, hosts include the Cleveland Institute of Music, Colburn School, Curtis Institute, Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, Nashville Symphony, and San Francisco Symphony. 

Additionally, $5,000 will be awarded to each LEADer for individual professional development, plus opportunities to learn skills from leading arts organizations across the country. LEADers will also work closely with a network of influential industry professionals and within a community of Black and Latinx arts leaders.

Applications for the sixth cohort of Sphinx LEAD will open in Spring 2023. For information, click here.