South Jersey Cultural Alliance Launches 2024 Arts & Culture Connector Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
South Jersey Cultural Alliance Launches 2024 Arts & Culture Connector Program
[April 30, 2024] – South Jersey Cultural Alliance (SJCA) is excited to announce the launch of the 2024 Arts & Culture Connector Program and the introduction of its new cohort of Connectors. The program aims to foster the growth and advancement of artists, cultural groups, and arts and history organizations across South Jersey's eight counties.
The 2024 cohort includes the following South Jersey artists:
- Tania Pomales, Cumberland County Arts & Culture Connector
- Terina Nicole Hill, Camden City Arts & Culture Connector
- Paulie Wenger, Camden History Connector
- Andrea Sauchelli, Ocean Camden Arts & Culture Connector
- Kiyomi Locker, South Jersey History Connector
Each Connector will play a crucial role in understanding their county's cultural landscape, identifying its unique strengths, challenges, and interests, and fostering collaborations within their communities. Together, Connectors will provide a comprehensive view of South Jersey's cultural landscape, representing all regions and communities.
Our Arts & Culture Connectors program plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. By recruiting local cultural professionals, we bridge the gap between SJCA and the diverse cultural communities we serve. They offer invaluable insights that help SJCA provide tailored support to cultural communities, artists, and arts & history organizations throughout the region.
Priority is given to placing individuals with disabilities and those from traditionally under-resourced communities, such as BIPOC, Hispanic, Asian, and LGBTQ+. The selected local artists or cultural professionals serve as Connectors and are awarded a one-year paid field appointment in their respective South Jersey counties. Through SJCA's comprehensive support system, including promotional efforts, professional development opportunities, and technical assistance, Connectors are empowered to evolve into influential cultural leaders within their respective communities. By aiding in the documentation and assessment of South Jersey's cultural landscape, Connectors not only contribute to preserving and understanding the region's rich cultural heritage but also actively shape its future trajectory.
As researchers, technical experts, and cultural leaders, Connectors engage with cultural assets, including artists and organizations, organize meetings, and report their findings to SJCA. This data enables SJCA to identify emerging trends and allocate resources effectively. Moreover, Connectors facilitate communication and provide technical support for grants and programs, ensuring equitable dissemination of information among local artists and cultural professionals. This underscores SJCA's commitment to being an inclusive voice for all community members.
SJCA's Arts & Culture Connectors program serves as a vital bridge between SJCA and diverse cultural communities. It empowers local professionals to shape and enrich South Jersey's cultural landscape while fostering inclusivity, collaboration, and sustainable leadership for the future.
For more information about the 2024 Connector Program and South Jersey Cultural Alliance, please visit sjca.net.
