The Opening Nights Education Committee supports the educational mission of Opening Nights at Florida State University by advising on the development of high-quality, impactful K–12 programming through the Opening Nights in Class initiative.
Comprised of educators, teaching artists, and community members, the Committee provides insight, feedback, and support to ensure programs are relevant, engaging, and aligned with educational goals.
Current Members
Scott Leaman
Secondary Music Curriculum Developer, Leon County Schools; Choral Director and Fine Arts Department Chair, Lincoln High School (Chair)
Sally Ash
2021 Arts Advocate Award Winner; Senior Program Specialist, Healthy Families Florida
Lewis Blessing
Director of Curriculum Services, Leon County Schools
Dr. Benny L. Bolden, Jr.
2022 Arts Advocate Award Winner; Director of Interdivisional Support Services and Secondary Schools, Leon County Schools
Ashley Chandler
Art Teacher, Apalachee Tapestry Magnet School of the Arts
Dr. Michael Douty
Band Director, Fairview Middle School
Ruth Akers
Musician and Educator
Lee Hinkle
Arts Supporter
Dan Taylor
Community and Arts Advocate
Brooke Hobbs
Community Volunteer
Dr. Lakeisha Johnson
Director of The Village, Florida Center for Reading Research; Assistant Professor, FSU College of Communication & Information
Jonathan Klepper
Senior Research Associate, Florida Center for Reading Research
Dr. Christopher Small
2020 Arts Advocate Award Winner; Executive Director, Florida State University Schools
Stacy Weaver
Director of Dance, RAA Middle School; Adjunct Professor, FSU College of Education
Tasha Weinstein
Director of Education & Engagement, WFSU
Dr. Joe Williams
IB Program Coordinator, Rickards High School
If you have questions or want to get involved, please reach out to, Jordan Phillips, Education & Engagement Manager at [email protected] or by phone at 850.644.2469