Black Art Speaks taps new COO to drive growth

Black Art Speaks named Asha White as its chief operating officer, a key step in expanding the organization’s impact across the region.

White will manage daily operations, nurture the organization’s growth and guide programs that bring public art, artist development and community projects to life. She’ll work closely with CEO Alandes Powell, local artists and community partners to strengthen Black Art Speaks’ mission and shape its future.

“I am honored to step into this role with Black Art Speaks,” said White. “This organization is proof of what is possible when Black artists are trusted, resourced and at the table. My commitment is to build systems that match the brilliance of our artists and the urgency of our communities, so that our impact is felt for generations.”

An artist- and culture-centered mission

Led by artists of color, Black Art Speaks champions Black culture, social justice and community expression through art. Founded by Powell in 2020 after Cincinnati’s historic Black Lives Matter street mural, the organization connects artists, youth and communities through public art, education, entrepreneurship and coalition-building – ensuring those most impacted lead, create, and benefit.

Since its founding, Black Art Speaks has engaged hundreds of artists and youth; led community efforts such as The Letter Project and major public art installations; and partnered with schools and neighborhoods to use art as a vehicle for healing, belonging and social change.

Powell said White’s appointment marks a critical milestone in Black Art Speaks’ evolution – from a moment of protest to a sustainable institution that creates jobs, transforms public space and amplifies the voices of creatives.

As COO, White will oversee:

• Organizational operations and systems
• Program and project management
• Artist support infrastructure
• Partnership and compliance management

“This role is not just about operations, it’s about protecting the mission while expanding our impact,” said Powell, who is also the organization’s president.

Bringing arts and corporate experience to the role

White’s hiring is possible because of financial support from The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation, Fifth Third Bank NA and Procter & Gamble, whose partnership continues to sustain and expand the organization’s impact.

“Investing in strong leadership like Asha’s ensures that Black Art Speaks’ vision – rooted in equity, excellence and collaboration – continues to grow and thrive,” Cal Cullen, a local artist and program director for the Haile Foundation, said in a statement.

White brings a strong track record of “mission-driven leadership, cross-sector collaboration and operational excellence that centers equity, accountability and innovation,” Powell said.

An arts leader and creative professional, White has directed arts education programs, including as director of education at Kennedy Heights Arts Center, and has nearly a decade as a practicing artist and educator through her business, Asha the Artist LLC. Her work includes residencies with Wave Pool and ArtWorks Cincinnati, where she led the New Monuments Initiative to reimagine commemorative spaces and center marginalized voices.

She also brings corporate and operational experience from Citi, Fifth Third Bank and Robin Imaging Services, where she combined leadership and arts administration while coordinating the Mohawk Gallery.

“Asha is exactly who we need for where we are and where we are going,” Powell said. “Her leadership, integrity, and proven ability to build systems that honor people and performance will allow our artists, youth, and partners to thrive.”

Black Art Speaks