Ceylon Mitchell, a communications specialist with a background in music performance, recently joined our staff as the communications and public relations manager. We sat down with him to learn about his background in the arts, his first few weeks at the Arts and Humanities Council of Montgomery County, and more!
Ceylon: I am a native of Anchorage, Alaska and very excited to work with AHCMC. I have a Master of Music Education from Boston University as well as a Graduate Certificate in Multimedia Journalism and Master of Music in flute performance from the University of Maryland. Prior to joining AHCMC, I served as the Communications & Media Coordinator in the University of Maryland Office of Community Engagement, an organization committed to facilitating connections, networking opportunities, and partnerships between the University of Maryland and surrounding communities. In this position, I managed press relations, creative assets, social media strategy, and web content while sharing knowledge and promoting the many engagement efforts in “Greater College Park.” While I have greatly enjoyed making a difference for my alma mater, I am excited to learn more about the local arts and humanities sectors in Montgomery County.
Ceylon: I play the flute! As an active artist and educator, I am the co-founder and flutist of Potomac Winds, a local chamber music collective. We engage in performances, collaborations, private instruction, and educational outreach, all very important to me. As a private consultant, I support performing arts individuals and organizations with digital media marketing strategies, multimedia content, and tailored services in order to ensure their artistic success. My mission is keeping the arts alive, authentic, and accessible in our communities!
“I’m looking forward to reading, listening, and sharing all of the wonderful cultural news, events, and opportunities happening in Montgomery County…”
AHCMC: What interested you to come work for AHCMC?
Ceylon: During my graduate studies at the University of Maryland, I learned about the arts communities, individuals, and institutions in the Washington D.C. metro area. Specifically, I have worked as the flute choir conductor with the Potomac Valley Youth Orchestra in Montgomery County for the last three years. This opportunity allowed me to learn about the diversity, community involvement, and wealth of cultural assets in the county. Upon discovering AHCMC, I was truly inspired by the organization’s mission and interested in learning more about the arts, grants, and nonprofits on a local level. With a unique experience in the performing arts, journalism, and advocacy, working with the Arts & Humanities Council of Montgomery County felt like the perfect fit!
AHCMC: Tell us a fun fact!
Ceylon: I grew up playing four sports – soccer, track, cross-county running, and cross-county skiing.
AHCMC: What are you most looking forward to as the CPRM?
Ceylon: I’m looking forward to reading, listening, and sharing all of the wonderful cultural news, events, and opportunities happening in Montgomery County for the community to enjoy. So send me those press releases at communications@creativemoco.com!