About Me
I am a St. Louis-born, Washington, DC-based curator, cultural strategist, and creative producer. I am the founder of Black in Space, an LGBTQ+ arts collective. My work builds community while celebrating the artistry, diversity, and resilience of Black LGBTQ+ people. As a history lover, I am committed to documenting and sharing the stories of Black queer and trans elders and ancestors for present and future generations.
I am freelancing and making magic with several organizations, including Highlander Research and Education Center, Connected to Culture, and NorthStar Church of the Arts. Previously, I was the Community Engagement Manager at the DC Creative Affairs Office. In this role, I engaged and supported the District of Columbia’s vibrant creative communities and institutions across the city’s eight wards. I contributed to policy, programming, and education, including producing The Mayor’s Arts Awards and building Care for Creatives, Business Over Brand, and Keep the Beat Going (Celebration of Go-Go) initiatives.
The National Trans Visibility March awarded me the Dr. Ron Simmons Community Pride Award in October 2020. In November 2015, I was recognized as a White House Champion of Change-LGBT Artist. I received my BA from Duke University and MBA from the University of Texas at Austin. My favorite pastimes include watching documentaries and attending dance performances with my wife, Alyah, laughing with family and friends, and convincing everyone that Sylvester is the greatest artist ever. I am “pops” to four amazing chosen children and an uncle to many.
Education + Press + Awards
William and Louise Greaves Filmmaker Seminar, BlackStar Film Festival
Third World Newsreel Media Production Training Program, Online
Executive Certificate Nonprofit Management
Georgetown University, Washington, DCMaster of Business Administration
Concentration in Marketing
The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TXBachelor of Arts Public Policy
Duke University, Durham, NCDJ 101
Scratch Academy, New York, NY
A 'twirling' legacy: Rayceen Pendarvis continues to connect and inspire generations
Be a Beacon Episode: Lee Levingston Perine and his Journey to Virtual Pride and Transcending Space
In The Telling: Black Family Podcast | Episode 8: The Chosen Ones
"The idea of ‘safe spaces’ has become controversial, but in nightlife it’s increasingly important" (Washington Post)
DC Hometown Hero Award
Brothers Obtaining and Navigating Dynamic Solidarity (BONDS) (Awarded November 2022)Office of Cable Television, Film, Music & Entertainment Employee of the Quarter (Awarded July 2022)
Employee of the Quarter is awarded to employees who demonstrate exemplary individual achievements, contributions, and outstanding job performance.
Torch Award - Dr. Ron Simmons Community Pride Award (Awarded October 2020)
The Torch Awards recognize distinguished achievements and honor individuals whose work has impacted the lives of TGNC communities nationwide.White House Champion of Change - LGBT Artist (Awarded November 2015)
The Champions of Change program was created by the Obama White House to feature individuals who seek to empower and inspire their communities.Washington City Paper Reader's Poll Best GLBT Wedding Planner (Awarded March 2011)
The best food, drink, arts, entertainment, people, places, goods, and services in DC, according to City Paper readers and editors.Yale Book Award (Awarded 1995)
The annual Yale Book Award recognizes outstanding high school juniors for their character, leadership, scholarship, and intellectual promise.