Our Team
Rae Choi
Founder
rae.c@bluebirdartfoundation.org
At the Blue Bird Art Foundation, we believe in the power of connecting "Heart to Art." Our mission is to create an environment that nurtures artistic talent and provides young artists with the platform to express themselves. By focusing on the heart; the emotional core of human experience, we aim to inspire future leaders who are compassionate, innovative, and socially responsible.
Through exhibitions that reflect the generosity and support of our members,
we give young artists the chance to share their unique perspectives.
As our young artists explore themes that reflect their emotions and thoughts, they develop empathy and emotional intelligence—qualities that are essential for future leaders to connect with others on a deeper level. Through art, they not only drive positive change but also foster a profound sense of belonging within their communities.
Cari oversees daily activities, and implements strategic initiatives. Her responsibilities include collaborating with educators, overseeing art exhibits, and fostering partnerships with schools and local organizations.
Cari Whelden
Board Member &
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
cari.w@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Wen Wen leads our financial strategy, ensuring a sustainable foundation for artistic innovation. She contributes strategic insights, guiding our mission to empower emerging artists.
Dr. Wen Wen Chien
Board Member &
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
wenwen.c@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Michelle entails engaging with potential affiliates to promote our non-profit platform includes fostering partnerships to expand our impact within the community and building partnerships to amplify and support charitable initiatives.
Dr. Michelle Lugones
Board Member &
Partnership Development
michelle.l@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Emma plans and executes impactful programs that align with our mission, fostering positive change and igniting creativity within the community through strategic collaboration.
Emma Oh
Program Director
emma.o@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Sonali spearheads fundraising initiatives to support student art exhibitions. Her dynamic role involves cultivating relationships with donors, creating strategic fundraising plans, and overseeing exhibits.
Sonali Jambhale
Director of Philanthropysonali.j@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Shanmuka conducts research on art trends, funding opportunities, grants, and innovative programs to support the strategic development and expansion of creative initiatives within engagement and sustainable growth.
Shanmuka Gadiraju
Director of Development
shanmuka.g@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Justin's role is focused on overseeing and guiding the students’ creative effort. He collaborates with educators, artists, and students to develop innovative programs, exhibitions, and educational materials that promote artistic expression and learning.
Justin Kim
Creative Director
justin.k@bluebirdfoundation.org
Dhruv utilizes innovative digital solutions for student art initiatives. He also oversees infrastructure, digital platforms, and cybersecurity to ensure seamless integration of technology to enhance student artistic experiences.
