The Summer Scholars On Stage Advisory Board provides leadership, insight, and guidance for the program’s artistic and educational mission. These dedicated professionals bring expertise in education, performance, policy, media, and student development, helping the camp continue to inspire students in grades 7–12.
Senior Executive Vice President, Consumer Bankers Association
Kelvin Chen leads financial policy initiatives for the Consumer Bankers Association and has served in advisory roles with the Financial Health Network and the Digital Dollar Project. A former Summer Scholars camper and staff member, he values the program’s power to build collaboration, creativity, and lasting relationships among young performers.
Choral Director, Starkville High School
Jennifer Davis is a music educator and former Summer Scholar who has directed choirs in Mississippi and Texas. She has developed piano labs and AP Music Theory courses and coordinates the State Solo and Ensemble Assessment and the Starkville–MSU Symphony’s Programs for Children.
Playwright, Author, and Narrator
Eric Fritzius is a playwright, short story author, and audiobook narrator whose work has been produced across Appalachia and featured in multiple anthologies. A former camper, he credits Summer Scholars with inspiring his start as a writer and storyteller.
Vice President for Access, Opportunity & Success, Mississippi State University
Dr. RaSheda Forbes is a higher education leader dedicated to expanding college access and student success. Her work promotes transformational learning experiences and mentorship for students from diverse backgrounds.
Playwright, Poet & Professor, Mississippi University for Women
T. K. Lee is an award-winning playwright, poet, and director who teaches literature and creative writing at Mississippi University for Women. As Summer Scholars Production Director, he helps students bring original stories to life on stage.
Theatre Educator & Director
Paula Mabry, longtime drama teacher and former Summer Scholars Director, built one of the state’s most successful high school theatre programs. She continues to teach acting at Mississippi State University and direct productions for Starkville Community Theatre.
Anchor & Producer, WCBI-TV
Andrea Self Nichols is a journalist and community leader whose arts journey began in Starkville’s VIVA program and high school musicals. She remains a strong supporter of youth theatre and regularly highlights Summer Scholars on WCBI-TV.
Licensed Professional Counselor & School Board Member
Cassandra Palmer is a Licensed Professional Counselor and member of the Starkville Oktibbeha School District Board of Education. With two decades of experience supporting children and families, she advocates for programs that nurture students’ social, emotional, and creative growth.
Associate Director, Summer Scholars Program
Sean Richmond is an educator and administrator with more than 30 years of experience in schools across several states. A longtime leader within Summer Scholars, he supports the program’s mission and the growth of its students.
Teacher & State Assessment Coordinator, Union High School (MI)
Joel Rutherford is a Social Studies teacher and State Assessment Coordinator in Grand Rapids, Michigan. A former camper and longtime staff member, he has served as counselor, music director, and associate director for Summer Scholars and chairs the Hall of Fame Awards Committee.