Jess joins GCCA with over 15 years of experience in nonprofit arts administration. She has a proven track record of start-up to growth-phase organizational leadership and development. From formulating strategic fundraising plans to preparing annual budgets and implementing sound strategies, her background has consistently been characterized by a steadfast dedication to managing fiscal responsibility and achieving organizational growth objectives. 

Jess comes to Greenville after nearly a decade as the Executive Director of Dogtown Dance Theatre in Richmond, Virginia. She successfully created and managed new programs and fundraising strategies that resulted in increased revenue by 144% during her tenure and those programs reflect the cultural diversity alive in art today. In a panel review by the Virginia Commission for the Arts, jurors commented that “Jess Burgess is a strong and active advocate for the arts at every level.” She has dedicated her career to diligently diversifying income streams and building lasting relationships to secure financial stability for arts organizations that will ensure all programming emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and access. Art should be a fundamental right, not a privilege. 

Jess currently serves on the Board of Directors for Palmetto States Arts Education (PSAE), The Fine Arts Center Partners, and the Association of Fundraising Professionals Piedmont SC Chapter. 

Alicia, a native of Arlington, Texas, grew up in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Metalsmithing and Jewelry from the University of North Texas in Denton. Prior to relocating, Alicia served as a Facilities Administrator in the financial services sector in Plano, Texas, where she also earned her certification in Office Ergonomics.

Now based in Greer, Alicia brings her passion for creativity and community to her role at GCCA, where she actively contributes to various projects. Outside of work, she maintains an active art practice from her home studio, focusing on illustration, acrylic painting, and metalsmithing.

Alicia enjoys life in South Carolina with her husband, son, and three cats. She is excited to explore new opportunities in the Greenville area and collaborate with the vibrant local arts community.

Javy joins GCCA with nearly a decade of non-profit arts administration experience. Starting his non-profit career in fundraising and development, Javy has been able to build off of his community relationships and partnerships to craft impactful programs across the mediums of visual arts, performing arts, STEAM education, health and wellness education, and community activism. As a professional performance artist, Javy has worked on the creation and production of theatre for young audiences both in the Upstate of South Carolina and in Los Angeles, California. With a degree in Communications and Public Relations, Javy has a passion for creating meaningful community connections and fostering opportunities for community members and artists, alike, to live more enriching, inspirational, imaginative lives in Greenville!