OUR STAFF

Lauren Garcia, Executive Director

Lauren Garcia (she/her) builds artist-centered institutions and guides organizations through periods of growth and transition. Her work sits at the intersection of art, strategy, and movement building, with a background spanning publishing, media, live event production, and affordable housing and homelessness advocacy. Her strength lies in designing sustainable infrastructure that supports public programs, integrating creative practice with political education and community care.

Vienna Alvarez, Production Manager

Staff

Vienna Alvarez (she/her) is a queer Latina DJ, event producer, AV technician and community organizer from the border of Tijuana, Mexico and San Diego, CA. She serves as a pillar to the international underground artist community in the U.S. and Mexico. She works with artists, promoters, nightclubs, venues, and community spaces to bridge the gaps between access, the entertainment industry and BIPOC artists communities.

Djérae Lucas, CQC & NQAF Program Manager

Staff2, Uncategorized

Djérae Lucas (he/they), born and raised in Laurel Maryland, has been a musician (singer and composer) for twenty years and has worked in the non-profit sector for eight years. Djérae merges their knowledge of their artistic practice and arts administration skills to create and support art that sparks community experiences and encourages connection, remembrance, healing, reclamation, and love.

Apollo Rydzik, Finance & Operations Manager

Staff2, Uncategorized

Apollo (he/him) is a queer, trans administrative support professional, sociologist, and creative writer from the Bay Area. Using his experience in community-based research, advocacy, and grant administration, Apollo works to reduce administrative barriers, improve funding access and transparency, and increase the number of programs, experiences, and spaces by and for our communities. As the Finance & Operations Manager for Queer Cultural Center, Apollo is supporting the financial well-being and operational efficiency of QCC and its Fiscally Sponsored Projects.