Sabella Barron is a proud CODA (Child of Deaf Adults) born and raised in Middletown, Maryland. She is currently attending Hood University for a BA in Art and Archaeology, focusing on Studio Art and Art History. 

Social Media: Instagram, @scb_art35

Brad Benna resides with his wife and three children in Frederick where he pursues a career in commercial real estate brokerage and investment.

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He has maintained a lifelong passion for art especially portraiture and caricature. Through his children, some of his favorite subjects, and their artistic passion and creativity, Brad has maintained and fostered new levels of achievement and exploration which have led him to the AAOE and tutelage from Yemi for which he is deeply honored.

Myra Derbyshire Ph. D., is an artist and recently retired biologist. A native of Scotland, she spent her childhood and early schooling in Hong Kong; she moved to the United Kingdom for university where she earned an Honors degree in Botany followed by a doctorate in Genetics. She then moved to the USA at age 23 and has worked in the USA as a research scientist, a college professor, and for the last 22 years of her career as a Data Scientist in the Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While at NIH she served on multiple trans NIH ICO (multiple Institutes, Centers, and Offices) committees for the advancement of women in STEMM. Now engaged fully in art, she studies watercolors under Rebecca Pearl and has taken abstract (acrylic) open studio classes under Calvin Ramsburg. In her art she uses vibrant contrasting colors and often draws on our connection with the natural world. When not painting she enjoys, reading, hiking, volunteering in her community, and spending time with her growing family.

Robin Dove is the photographer and owner of RED Dove Photography, serving corporate, social, and wedding clients across the DMV, Pennsylvania, and beyond. With over 20 years of past experience in event management & planning coupled with professional photography, Robin brings a unique blend of artistry and logistical expertise to every project.

Her work is defined by a calm, intentional approach that captures connection, emotion, and legacy—whether documenting an intimate wedding, a milestone social event, or a high-profile corporate event. Robin’s background in planning large-scale gatherings and intimate ceremonies allows her to anticipate moments, solve problems seamlessly, and ensure clients feel supported throughout the process.

At the heart of RED Dove Photography is Robin’s belief that photographs are more than images—they are stories preserved for future generations and tools that elevate brands and communities today. Clients value her ability to balance professionalism with warmth, creating an experience that is both polished and deeply personal.

Alexandra Gushard-Edwards is the owner of Marie Rose Photography & Videography, a thriving photography and videography business based in Frederick. A proud mom to a 14-year-old, Alexandra has been successfully running her business since 2021. She is passionate about empowering her clients and helping them build confidence through her work. Specializing in brand elevation and boudoir photography, Alexandra’s mission is to help individuals celebrate self-love and elevate their personal and professional presence. With a keen eye for detail and a dedication to creating meaningful, empowering experiences, she is committed to capturing both stunning images and transformative moments.

As a mom and former elementary school teacher, Tiffany Kowalsky is a natural at connecting with families. She specializes in family portraits and loves finding creative ways to catch those big, authentic smiles. From capturing genuine family interaction and belly laughing to involving the kids with creating new poses, she makes the whole experience fun, comfortable and memorable. Tiffany feels privileged to create keepsakes that families can cherish for years to come.

Carly Lederer is an up-and-coming mural and portrait artist who loves living in Frederick and being a part of this engaged and energized community. Her dream is to utilize her art and her connections created here through Rotary International, Leadership Frederick, Habitat for Humanity, and amazing opportunities like this one, to bring light and creativity to underserved communities all over the world. Art is just the start.

Ted Luck is a career educator having worked with Frederick County Public School for more than three decades in various capacities and Hood College.  He is currently the Chair of the Board of Trustees at Frederick Community College.   Ted Luck is also an acrylic and collage artist (TedluckArt.com).  He is an avid collector of vintage cameras.

Coming Soon

Shree brings a beautiful blend of creativity, culture, and community to African Americans of Excellence. With a bachelor’s in computer science and a master’s in business administration focused on HR and finance, she has built an impressive professional path and currently serves as the Branch Manager at Woodsboro Bank.

Alongside her dedication to her career, Shree’s passion for art shines just as brightly. She infuses her cultural heritage into her work, creating unique pieces that reflect who she is and where she comes from. Her art is more than expression, it’s connection.

She lives in Walkersville with her husband and two children, and continues to share her gifts with our community through her creativity and perspective.

Emma Sandler is an artist from Frederick, Maryland primarily working in sculpture and illustration. Themes that inform their work include folklore, anatomy and traditions. Sandler received their bachelor's degree from Hood College and currently works at the Frederick Arts Council, where they managed the installation of the 2nd Annual African Americans of Excellence Exhibit.

Born in Texas, Raised in MD. Graduate of Frostburg State University (Art & Business) 2007, Mortgage Loan officer since 2012 and have continued my art through oil paintings, figurative and abstract portrait work along with printmaking and mixed media art markets and online sales

Coming soon.