Juana Medina is the author and illustrator of multiple children’s books, including the chapter book series Juana & Lucas, winner of the prestigious Pura Belpré Award and two International Latino Book Awards. The New York Times says of Juana & Lucas “Medina’s beautiful, vivid prose conjures the Colombian setting with tactile language… the story itself is a giant hug.”
Joshua Emswiller is the Operation Manager and Senior Instructor for the Mason Game & Technology Academy
Dr. Kanako Chikami, a native of Japan, is thrilled to be an adjunct percussion faculty member for the Dewberry School of Music of George Mason University.
With a Bachelor of Arts in Music Industry from Minnesota State University — Moorhead and a Graduate Certificate in Arts Management from George Mason University, Matt has enjoyed a varied and well-rounded career including dancer, choreographer, dance instructor, booking agent, art gallery sales, marketer, program manager, event coordinator, grant writer and more.
Alaina graduated Magna Cum Laude from George Mason University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater in 2012. Having previously worked with Mason Community Arts Academy as Coordinator of Private Music Lessons, Alaina now joins us as Coordinator of Programs & Registration supporting MCAA’s year-round classes and summer programming.
Kaity graduated from George Mason University with a Bachelor of Arts in Theater in 2011 and a Master of Arts in Arts Management in 2019. Kaity has been a part of the Acting for Young People team since 2008, working as a Teaching Artist in after-school, summer camp, and showcase programs, and as the resident stage manager for all of AFYP’s educational and touring productions.
Morgan serves as Coordinator of Private Music Lessons at Mason Community Arts Academy. With a background in arts management, music & audio engineering, and arts operations, she has held many diverse roles within the arts.
Dr. Samantha Clarke, conductor and flutist, is a Long Island native of East Rockaway, New York. She has a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) degree in conducting fron George Mason University.
Shá Norman (They/She) joins George Mason University with over ten years of experience in program administration in education non-profits and higher education institutions.
Paul Cassens is a principal dancer with the D.C. Casineros, a role which has given him the opportunity to perform, teach, and choreograph with the company throughout the United States and abroad.
