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Our Team
Rae Choi
Founder
rae.c@bluebirdartfoundation.org
At Blue Bird Art Foundation, we provide a platform where young people can explore humanity, strengthen human connections, and develop a deeper appreciation for a human-centered perspective through meaningful art activities and creative experiences.
Through Heart to Art activities, exhibitions, storytelling, and community projects that support good causes, young people discover that creativity is more than self-expression; it is a way to understand others, build meaningful connections, serve their communities, and put compassion into action.
In today’s digital landscape, we believe this human-centered understanding is more important than ever. We encourage members to use creativity to tell meaningful stories, communicate with empathy, connect across communities, and grow in confidence, leadership, compassion, and a heart for service. Whether expressed through art, storytelling, community service, or digital platforms, creativity can be a meaningful way to connect with others and make a positive difference.
Together, we are nurturing compassionate young leaders who understand the importance of humanity and relationships, and lead with creativity, empathy, responsibility, and heart in our ever-changing digital landscape.
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
SoYoung Yoon
Board Member
soyoung.y@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Karen Mussomele
Board Member Karen.M@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Emma oversees the planning and implementation of programs, coordinating activities, schedules, participants, volunteers, and resources to support effective program delivery and community engagement.
Emma Oh
Program Director
emma.o@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Shanmuka researches art trends and innovative programs while supporting community outreach and helping expand creative initiatives that strengthen engagement and long-term growth.
Shanmuka Gadiraju
Director of Development
shanmuka.g@bluebirdartfoundation.org
Justin guides creative development through brainstorming, storytelling, drafting, and revision. He also collaborates with educators and artists to develop writing workshops, publications, and educational materials that encourage creativity, self-expression, and communication.
Justin Kim
Writing & Creative Development Lead
justin.k@bluebirdfoundation.org
Dhruv uses innovative digital solutions to support art initiatives and creative programs. He manages digital platforms and technology systems to enhance creative experiences.
