Meet the Team


These dedicated and passionate arts professionals are leading The DC Arts Center into its next phase of impact, growth, and success.

The DC Arts Center Is comprised of Senior Administration, Arts Associates, a Board of Directors, a Visual Arts Committee, and an Advisory Board. Interested in joining the team? Please click here.


Meet the Team

These dedicated and passionate arts professionals are leading The DC Arts Center into its next phase of impact, growth, and success.

The DC Arts Center Is comprised of Senior Administration, Arts Associates, a Board of Directors, a Visual Arts Committee, and an Advisory Board. Interested in joining the team? Please click here.

Senior Administration

The Senior Administration at The DC Arts Center provides visionary leadership and strategic direction to ensure the organization’s continued growth, impact, and artistic excellence. Led by the Executive Director this team oversees all aspects of DCAC’s operations, from programming and fundraising to community engagement and financial sustainability. Committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive arts environment, they drive institutional innovation, support artists, and champion the organization’s mission. With a focus on both big-picture strategy and day-to-day operations, the Senior Administration ensures DCAC remains a vital hub for creativity and cultural expression.

Sean Elias

Executive Director
selias@dcartscenter.org
(202) 462-7833

River Hansen

Deputy Executive Director
rhansen@dcartscenter.org
(202) 462-7833

Arts Associates

Arts Associates are essential to the daily operations of The DC Arts Center, ensuring a welcoming and seamless experience for patrons, artists, and visitors alike. This role supports exhibitions, theatrical performances, educational programming, and special events while also handling key administrative tasks. From staffing the gallery and assisting guests to providing box office support and maintaining the facility, Arts Associates play a hands-on role in keeping DCAC running smoothly. With a team-focused mindset, they step in wherever needed to help the organization thrive.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors at The DC Arts Center provides strategic leadership, governance, and support to ensure the organization’s continued growth and impact. Committed to fostering a vibrant arts community, board members bring expertise across various fields to guide DCAC’s mission, strengthen its financial sustainability, and expand its reach. Through advocacy, fundraising, and thoughtful stewardship, the Board plays a vital role in shaping the future of DCAC and ensuring its place as a cornerstone of artistic expression in Washington, DC.

Philip Barlow
Chair, Renowned DC Collector

Brian Williamson, Esq.
Treasurer, Founding Partner & Private Wealth Advisor, Veridian Capital Partners

Eames Armstrong
Secretary, Former General Manager, The DC Arts Center

Kristen Barden
Executive Director, Adams Morgan Partnership Business Improvement District

Jeffry Cuddlin
Professor of Curatorial Practice, Maryland Institute of College of Art (MICA)

Lisa Gilotty
Renowned DC Collector

Kathryn McDonnell
Award-winning, DC Artist

Visual Arts Committee

The Visual Arts Committee plays a pivotal role in shaping the artistic vision of The DC Arts Center. Composed of dedicated volunteers, staff, and board members, this committee reviews artist applications, provides curatorial direction, and actively recruits new talent to showcase in DCAC’s gallery. Committed to fostering diverse and thought-provoking visual art experiences, the committee ensures that DCAC remains a dynamic platform for emerging and established artists in Washington, DC, and beyond.

Philip Barlow
Chair, The DC Arts Center Board of Directors, Renowned DC Collector

Sean Elias
Executive Director, The DC Arts Center

Sarah J. Hull
Former Sparkplug Artists’ Collective Member, Professional Artist

Rashad Ali Muhammad
Former Sparkplug Artists’ Collective Member, Professional Artist

Milan Warner
Arts Associate, The DC Arts Center

Advisory Board

Jay Bothwell
Past President of The DC Arts Center Board of Directors

Bruce Kogod
Former Chairman and CEO, Maurice Electronics, Co.

Rebecca Montesi
LSM Architects