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In continuation of our SCFD Staff in the Spotlight series, this month's feature is Program Officer, Dana Manyothane! Dana joined SCFD in 2017 and was the former Executive Director of the Colorado Black Arts Festival. Here are a few things you may not know about her, in her words:
The best part of Dana's job:
"Seeing the arts, culture, and science communities thrive across the Denver Metro area and knowing that I played a small role in making that possible. When I attend a show, visit a museum, or take part in a cultural event and see the smiles, laughter, and joy on people’s faces, I feel deeply rewarded for the work I do at SCFD."
A recent, memorable experience with arts, culture, or science:
"While I’ve had many memorable arts, culture, and science experiences, one that especially resonated with me given my background in science was the Denver Museum of Nature & Science’s screening of T. REX at their beautiful Infinity Theater, followed by a visit to the Discovering Teen Rex exhibition. The museum hosted the three boys who discovered the juvenile fossil, along with their families, which made the experience even more special. I was able to attend with my own family, including my son who is studying paleontology at the University of Colorado Boulder. Seeing his awe and excitement made the experience especially meaningful and unforgettable."
Dana's current favorite song:
"My current favorite song is 'Yaw La' by Carlou D. It reminds me of my recent visit to Senegal, West Africa, and beautifully captures the essence of a divinely destined love."
If SCFD had an office talent show, Dana would wow everyone with:
"My rendition of the Boots on the Ground line dance. Where IS my fan?"
A fun fact:
"I’m genuinely excited that we’re entering the season of the five T’s: Tents, Turkey legs, T-shirts, Totes, and Trinkets. It’s officially festival and fair season, and I couldn’t be happier! Yippee!"
Dana's connection to Culture For All:
"As a Denver native, I’ve witnessed the transformation of our arts, science, and cultural landscape, from my early visits as a kid to the Denver Museum of Natural History (now the Denver Museum of Nature & Science) and the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance, to culturally rich experiences like watching my grandfather and uncles perform African drumming in Denver City Park. These early moments connected me to the richness of our community’s culture. As a mother of four, I’ve been able to pass that connection on to my children, exposing them to the incredible museums, performances, and events across the district. Some of these experiences even made their way into their classrooms or came through school field trips. Our lives have been deeply enriched by the organizations supported by SCFD. To me, SCFD is a catalyst for making arts, science, and culture accessible to all. It breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for joy, discovery, and shared experience across communities."
Want to learn even more about Dana? Read her bio here.
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