Arts Council of Anne Arundel County , AngelWing Project & Chesapeake Arts Center Presents…..
Let's Continue Talking About DEIA in the Arts Series
D.E.I.A - Accessibility
Guest Speakers: Deena Kilmon from Discover Easton & Jessica Bellis from COO of the Avalon Foundation
Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 11:00 am (Virtually)
Register here
Deena’s Bio: Deena Kilmon is the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Easton Economic Development Corporation, where she is responsible for tourism marketing and community engagement for DiscoverEaston, funded in part by the Town of Easton. Many of their events are arts-focused and provide a perfect avenue for supporting inclusion of all of Easton’s residents. She was formerly the Director of Engagement for The Arc, where she created opportunities for children and adults with disabilities, and their families, to connect to resources and engage with the community. The mission of The Arc is equity and access and for everyone to be included in the community of their choosing in meaningful ways. Prior to joining The Arc in 2018, Deena served as a Project Manager for Easton Economic Development Corporation. She brings robust experience in marketing having spent four years as an Account Executive at Effectv (formerly Comcast Spotlight), helping local businesses affordably and effectively market themselves through digital media. Deena serves on the board of Directors at Chesapeake Neighbors and is a former director of the Central Maryland Chamber as a member-at-large, serving on their IDEA committee (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility) and the Women’s Leadership Roundtable. She has served on numerous boards of non-profits with the consistent effort to bring equity and opportunity to her community and is the founder of Inclusive Easton.
Personal notes: She lives in Easton MD with her husband Steve Kilmon and is the proud mom of two girls. In her spare time, she enjoys watercolors, jewelry making and kayaking. Her arts experience includes ArtReach Director for 4 years at the esteemed Academy Arts Museum in Easton, MD, bringing the arts to people of all ages and abilities through this program. She co -founded Ouvert gallery in St. Michaels MD (now closed) and has sold her work in various local galleries. She also maintains a personal facebook page “ddkilmon designs” where some of her work is featured.
Jessica’s Bio: Jessica Bellis is the Chief Operating and Finance Officer for the Avalon Foundation, the largest Arts nonprofit on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. During her near 20 year tenure at the Avalon Foundation revenues have grown from $600K to $2.7MM, as a result of her innovative approach to developing sustainable programming with great community impact. Jessica was a key player in establishing the Foundation’s relationship with the Talbot County Public Schools and its varied and successful outreach programs including in school residencies, extensive bus in performances, fine and performing arts summer camps, the Talbot County Multicultural Festival and more.
Jessica has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance with a concentration in Risk Management from Virginia Tech. She serves as the Vice Chair on the Talbot County Tourism Board and as a board member on the Talbot County Public School Education Foundation. She is also a member of the newly formed Talbot County Equity Coalition. Jessica lives in Easton, Maryland and is the very proud mother of two boys at Easton High School.