FELLOWSHIP OVERVIEW
The Seattle Arts Fellowship is a year-long fellowship program hosted by Seattle Opera and Classical KING to develop the next generation of arts leaders. The fellowship is for individuals who identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color (BIPOC) and are seeking leadership positions in arts administration.
The paid fellowship includes hands-on work experience in arts administration and learning opportunities. The fellowship cohort will engage in peer-to-peer learning, connect with local arts leaders, and build a strong network to support their career development.
Questions? Please contact us at fellowship@seattleopera.org
Meet our fellows
LEONA OLIVEROS (CLASSICAL KING)
Leona Oliveros is a south sound educator with roots in the Philippines and the Pacific Northwest. They have taught language arts and history in the Federal Way and Seattle public schools and currently teaches at Highline College in the High School Engagement and Academic Success program. Leona participated in band programs from elementary through early college and continues to find creative outlets through supporting local musicians and developing unique curriculum for their program. They are especially excited about the fellowship because they grew up listening to King FM when driving around the city with their dad. Leona attended Western Washington University where they received a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature with a minor in Education and Social Justice, and a Master in Teaching.
TONY OTEROMARRERO (SEATTLE OPERA)
Tony Oteromarrero was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico; his parents moved to Orlando, Florida, at ten so that he and his sisters could have a better chance in the land of opportunity. At the age of eighteen, he joined the US Navy, and this new beginning brought him to the beautiful PNW. Tony has always had a passion for theater, and while his experience in the Navy was positive, he would find escapism in the music soundtracks he loved. Soon after the Military, Tony found a home at Coupe Rokei Salon and Academy in the Pike Place Market, where he became the Director of Operations during his 20-year tenure. This is where he was introduced to the world of Classical Music, Opera, Theater, Ballet, Symphony, and Orchestra. Since then, he has become an often visitor to many wonderful shows. Tony is excited about this opportunity and hopes it catapults his professional life into a world he has always loved and admired so fondly.
COMPENSATION
Positions are full-time and will pay a salary of $50,000. Hourly rate is dependent on the organization's workweek. All positions are hourly, non-exempt. Relocation expenses will not be covered.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who should apply to the fellowship?
The fellowship is open to all applicants identifying as BIPOC. Ideal candidates will be individuals who have recently entered the workforce or are transitioning into arts administration, aspire to become leaders in arts organizations, have a passion for the arts, and display an interest in developing new, creative ways to lead arts organizations.
Are there age restrictions?
As a full-time position, all applicants must be 18 and older. The fellowship is designed for those who have just entered the workforce (college graduates) or those transitioning into nonprofit arts careers.
Do I need prior arts administration experience to be considered?
No, anyone who identifies as BIPOC and is considering a career in arts leadership should consider applying.
Still have questions? Email us at fellowship@seattleopera.org with any questions regarding the fellowship program or your application.
Sponsored by the Chisholm Foundation and the Foster Foundation.