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Ambassador: Maria Nicole Smith

Who Am I?

I am a fundraiser, cultural advocate, arts enthusiast, and avid researcher on cultural policy and planning.  Currently, I am the Development Specialist at the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum in Southeast Washington, D. C.

Why I Think 20UNDER40 is Important:

The future of the arts politically, economically, and creatively will be in the hands of a generation of artists and arts professionals who are boldly willing to consider what the arts could be.   The 20UNDER40 project is important because it adds the voice of those who will move the conversation forward to the recorded discourse about the future of the arts.

What I’ll Do to Promote the Anthology:

As secretary of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network National Board of Directors, I will suggest a promotional partnership between 20UNDER40 and YNPN so that this project can be introduced to our more than 30 chapters and 20,000 members across the country.  I am sure that the essays’ themes will resonate with young nonprofit professionals in various industries.  I will also spread the word through my personal contacts of colleagues, collaborators and friends, including those working with National Arts Strategies, Emerging Leaders in New York Arts and those who have access to venues for 20UNDER40-related events across the country.