Our Team
Meet the team behind the Hip-Hop Education Center, a collective of educators, artists, researchers, and cultural leaders dedicated to advancing Hip-Hop as a force for education, equity, and innovation. With deep roots in culture and a shared commitment to impact, the team works across disciplines to build programs, preserve history, and create pathways for future generations.
Executive Leadership
Organizational leadership and strategic direction
Media & Cultural Programming
Teaching & Learning
Research, Policy & Impact
Strategic Communications & Marketing
Digital Infrastructure, Archives & Innovation
Board of Trustees
Governance and strategic leadership
Andrew Read
Board Chair. Managing Attorney specializing in business strategy and real estate.
Board Chair. Managing Attorney specializing in business strategy and real estate.
Simma
Vice-Chair. Inclusive educator and counselor integrating trauma-informed, arts-based teaching.
Vice-Chair. Inclusive educator and counselor integrating trauma-informed, arts-based teaching.
Rich Boyd, Esq.
Co-Chair & Treasurer. Entertainment law and IP leader.
Co-Chair & Treasurer. Entertainment law and IP leader.
Michelle Mendez
Secretary. Patient advocate and community leader using creativity as a tool for justice and empowerment.
Secretary. Patient advocate and community leader using creativity as a tool for justice and empowerment.
Carlos Mare
Board Member. Webby Award winner; pioneer in graffiti, fine art, and digital media.
Board Member. Webby Award winner; pioneer in graffiti, fine art, and digital media.
Stacey L’Air Easiley
Board Member. Media communications leader with roots in documentary storytelling and social change.
Board Member. Media communications leader with roots in documentary storytelling and social change.
