MEET THE TEAM
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Ashley Calhoun
Interim Executive Director
Ashley Calhoun supports and strengthens their communities through ethical frameworks of empowerment based in narrative power, structural change, and sustainable financial, creative, and restorative support. As a dedicated creative nonprofit professional, arts administrator, and creative with almost 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and over ten years of experience within Detroit creative environments, she brings a wealth of experience to Detroit Narrative Agency (DNA). Ashley is looking forward to bolstering DNA’s programming, impact, and overall foundation as the hub of Detroit’s media-based storytelling ecosystem. Ashley’s educational background is in fine art history and international relations from Tufts University.
Ashley is also a stand-up comedian, an improvisational actor, a writer, and a polyglot who loves to solo-travel and try new foods.
Suai Kee is the newly appointed Director of Development at Detroit Narrative Agency. With five years combined experience in fundraising and donor relationship management, and more than two decades as a member of Detroit’s creative communities, she brings a unique expertise to the organization. She is passionate about equipping creatives with tools to develop and monetize their practices and is dedicated to securing the resources needed to further DNA’s development goals. Suai holds a Bachelor of Arts in Film from Wayne State University and has previously worked at nationally-ranked venture capital firm and accelerator, gener8tor.
Outside of work, she loves to travel, decompress with long distance cycling, and is a huge fan of deep dish vegan pizzas!
Director of Development
Suai Kee
Aleesa Searcy
Administrative Manager
Aleesa brings with her over 10 years experience in the non-profit arts administration and youth development fields. She's excited to make this career transition into the film space and looks forward to supporting DNA and participants in creating art!
She spends her spare time reading, weight lifting, taking long walks, spending time with family, and volunteering with her sorority. She is a freelance graphic designer who has worked on several social media campaigns for local and national organizations She is also a certified yoga instructor and has a passion for fat acceptance, joyful movement, fashion and art.