Our Team

Our Board of Directors

Meet the Board

Here is a sneak peek at our board of directors members, the cornerstone of our nonprofit, Erguvan Art and Academy. This dedicated group of leaders guides our mission and ensures we meet our goals.

Ali Karatay

Chief Executive Officer

Ali Karatay is an artist and educator who has dedicated his life to nurturing creativity in others. As Erguvan’s CEO, he leads with vision, heart, and a deep belief in the transformative power of art.

Kari O’Rourke

Director of Engagement

Kari O’Rourke is the heart behind many of Erguvan’s connections. As Director of Engagement, she helps build the bridges between people, ideas, and projects—always with warmth and intention.

Leyla Akgedik

Supervisor

Leyla Akgedik supports Erguvan’s evolving story through her commitment to artistic exploration, intergenerational learning, and building spaces that nourish both skill and spirit.

M. Saif Islam

Chief Financial Officer

Prof. Saif Islam is a UC Davis engineer and innovator who believes in the power of education to uplift communities. As a board member, he helps shape Erguvan’s long-term vision with clarity and care.

Mercan Kuloglu

Co-President

Rooted in both classical music and human behavior, Mercan supports Erguvan’s values-driven approach to art, learning, and personal development.

Leyla Akgedik

Supervisor

Leyla Akgedik supports Erguvan’s evolving story through her commitment to artistic exploration, intergenerational learning, and building spaces that nourish both skill and spirit.

Their diverse expertise and commitment are vital in shaping the strategic direction of our organization, ensuring that we continue to foster artistic expression and community engagement in meaningful ways.

Our Crew

The Team That Makes It All Possible!

Thanks to the members below and many others, Erguvan Art & Academy can keep up with the needs of its projects and goals.

Polat Yıldız

Co-President, Projects

Zeynep Günalp

Secretary General

Şebnem Özdemir

Supervisor Assistant

Zeynep Özçelik

Engagement Lead

Miranda Kiel

Children’s Book Lead

Dilara Özdemir

Website Lead

M. Vedat Elçi

Technical Lead

Hüsna Aykaç

Marketing Lead

Nesibe Aykaç

Erguvan Juniors Lead

Fatma Sena Bark

Records Lead

Fatma Çiçek

Edit Lead

Samiye Has

By Erguvan 4 Erguvan Lead

Bilal Uygur

Europe Erguvan Lead

Esra Nur Altun

Rumi Circle Lead

Dilara Sarıgöz

E-Studio Lead

Art will save the world!

Our Mission :

We inspire creative action and lifelong learning by combining the arts with education, dialogue, and community care. Through youth programs, art education, cultural exchange, and meaningful service, we aim to grow together—and grow better.

Resources:

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