MOVE Artists announced seven new appointments to its Board of Advisors, advancing preparations for the initiative's official launch this fall. The program, powered by the Drake Institute of Women's Policy, utilizes artistic creativity to increase voter registration and participation nationwide through partnerships with colleges, creative hubs, and community organizations.
Destiny Drake West, founder of MOVE Artists and CEO of the Drake Institute of Women's Policy, emphasized the board's role in merging cultural relevance with civic impact. The newly appointed members bring expertise spanning arts, culture, education, law, business, and community engagement, positioning the initiative to effectively reach diverse audiences.
The board includes Sarah Wilber, former Vice President of Capital Campaigns and Strategic Planning at the Kennedy Center, who led its $250 million Endowment Campaign; Jordan Shelby West, Ph.D., Associate Vice Provost at George Washington University and award-winning scholar-activist; and Ian Alden Russell, Ph.D., a global arts executive and curator with extensive experience touring and recording with the vocal group Anúna.
Additional members are Cameron Nelson, Executive Producer for TEDxSouthCentral, business executive, and classically trained pianist; Jheri Holbert, Ed.D., Founder and CEO of Kids4Equity, with a background in performing arts and media; Christina Heliotis, LL.M., an attorney specializing in digital economy regulation and policy, who also exhibits abstract paintings; and Dianne Giacoio, Vice President of Business Development at Capezio, supporting the global dancewear brand's growth across multiple continents.
These appointments, effective immediately for two-year terms, underscore the strategic importance of integrating artistic influence with civic mobilization. The initiative's nonpartisan approach aims to address declining voter turnout by engaging communities through culturally resonant artistic works that double as tools for democratic participation, potentially influencing electoral outcomes and strengthening civic infrastructure nationwide.
