The YA Board of Trustees is excited to welcome its newest members: Tara Chalakani, Baninder Goomer, Shea Murray, and Naiobe Sharrock. Congratulations and welcome aboard!

Tara Chalakani is a leading mental health expert and CEO of Preferred Behavioral Health Group, where she oversees 500 employees providing mental health and substance use services to nearly 30,000 individuals annually across New Jersey. Additionally, she maintains a private psychotherapy practice, teaches at Hackensack University School of Medicine, and is a frequent media guest and contributor to Forbes.

Baninder Goomer has a rich career in education, serving in various leadership roles within Edison Township Public Schools, including Chief Academic Officer, and holding supervisory positions in Robbinsville and Princeton. With a family legacy of educators, she's also a published author, a passionate traveler, and a mom of two.

Shea Murray, the Visual and Performing Arts Coordinator for the New Jersey Department of Education, develops student learning standards and provides resources to arts educators. With over 20 years in public education and a background as a visual artist, he's dedicated to increasing inclusive and equitable arts learning for all students.

Naiobe Sharrock is an accomplished education leader and Assistant Principal in Essex County, known for spearheading initiatives in social-emotional learning, student attendance, and community engagement. She is actively involved with organizations like the Junior League of Elizabeth Plainfield and Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey. She maintains professional affiliations with Phi Delta Kappa International, ASCD, NJPSA, and SAG-AFTRA, while pursuing her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction.

“We are thrilled to welcome this exceptional group of individuals to our board. Their passion, experience and commitment to our mission will be invaluable as we continue to deepen our impact. Together, we will be able to advance our work of bringing arts programming to schools,” said Michele Russo, YA President and CEO.

Please help us give Tara, Baninder, Shea, and Naiobe the warmest welcome as they help YANJEP continue our mission to inspire young people and expand their learning through the arts.

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About Young Audiences Arts for Learning

Young Audiences Arts for Learning NJ and Eastern PA, established in 1973, is the leading arts-in-education resource in the region, offering teaching artist-led performances, workshops, residencies, and professional learning programs to schools across New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. With an extensive roster of professional artists spanning various art forms, Young Audiences has impacted over 15 million children in its 50-year history. Committed to inspiring young minds and fostering inclusive learning environments, Young Audiences strives to ensure that every child receives rich and meaningful arts experiences. Through diverse and accessible programs, the organization aims to strengthen arts education, meet curriculum standards, and enrich cultural life in communities throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

MEDIA CONTACT:

AnnMarie Gervasio

Director of Marketing and PR

Young Audiences Arts for Learning

866-500-9265 ext. 209

agervasio@yanjep.org

yanjep.org