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.

Polat Yıldız

Co-President

Polat Yıldız supports Erguvan’s systematic progress through his logical approach to cybersecurity and infrastructure automation, contributing a realistic perspective that balances technical precision with the unifying power of art to teach as he learns.

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 Kuloğlu

Co-President

Mercan Kuloğlu supports Erguvan’s values-driven approach to art, learning, and personal development through a perspective rooted in both classical music and human behavior.

Zeynep Özçelik

Secretary

Zeynep Özçelik brings light to Erguvan through her vibrant energy and inclusive communication, offering consistent support while enriching the collective’s artistic expression with her gift for storytelling.

Polat Yıldız

Co-President

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.