Our Roots, Our Community
In the heart of rural Mississippi, the Quitman County Arts Council and Culture Center stands as a shining example of community resilience and pride—planted in a place where meaningful access to the arts was once nearly out of reach. In a region blessed with the powerful heritage of the Mississippi Delta—its music, storytelling, craftsmanship, and cultural memory—opportunities for creative discovery and celebration had long been too few. Yet the spirit of the Delta has always been rich with expression, waiting for a place where it could be nurtured, shared, and passed forward.
The creation of the Center grew from that need. Local leaders, families, educators, and community advocates came together with a shared vision: to build a space where creativity could flourish and where the stories of Quitman County could be honored and preserved. They listened to the voices around them—children eager to explore their talents, elders whose memories carried generations of history, and neighbors who simply longed for a gathering place that reflected the beauty and strength of their community. From these conversations, the Quitman County Arts Council and Culture Center was born.
From the very beginning, the Center’s foundation rested on genuine partnership. Schools, civic leaders, churches, and local organizations joined in open dialogue, building trust and shaping a vision together. The goal was not simply to create programs, but to build something that truly belonged to the people of Quitman County. Every decision was guided by the belief that community voices should lead the way.
Central to that mission has been removing barriers that once kept many from participating in the arts. The Center meets people where they are—offering affordable and often free programs designed for youth, families, and seniors alike. Classes, workshops, performances, and cultural gatherings are shaped by the community itself, ensuring that the creativity inside the Center’s walls reflects the lived experiences and aspirations of the people it serves.
The impact can be seen every day. Young people discover confidence as they explore painting, music, writing, and performance. Elders find that their stories and traditions are not only remembered but celebrated. Families gather in a welcoming space where creativity becomes a shared experience and where neighbors connect through art, culture, and conversation.
At its core, the Quitman County Arts Council and Culture Center is guided by a simple but powerful belief: the arts are not extras. They are essential threads in the fabric of community life—threads that weave together empowerment, growth, heritage, and hope for the future of Quitman County. Through creativity and collaboration, the Center continues to strengthen those bonds, ensuring that the spirit of the Delta will inspire generations to come.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, CPM
Bernice Sykes
Bernice Skyes is a proud Quitman County native dedicated to expanding arts access throughout her community. With extensive experience in arts education and nonprofit leadership, she blends Delta cultural heritage with strong educational programming and community partnerships. A passionate mentor to youth and advocate for preserving local traditions, Berenice works to ensure the Center remains a welcoming space where new voices are encouraged and the stories of the Mississippi Delta continue to inspire future generations.
Program Evaluator and Direction
Dr. Evelyn Jossell
Dr. Jossell is deeply committed to advancing arts education in Quitman County, using her leadership to design creative and accessible learning experiences that inspire young people. With a strong belief in the power of the arts to support both academic growth and cultural pride, she works closely with students and educators to integrate meaningful artistic expression into everyday learning. Known for her hands-on approach, Dr. Jossell actively collaborates with teachers, mentors youth, and advocates for inclusive programs that reflect the lived experiences and cultural heritage of local families.
Finance Director
Emma Simpson
Emma Simpson, Finance Director, plays a vital role in ensuring the Quitman County Arts Council and Culture Center manages its resources with transparency, care, and accountability. With expertise in nonprofit finance, she oversees financial planning and stewardship that support the Center’s sustainable growth and long-term impact. Emma is deeply committed to responsible management that allows creative programs to flourish, and she takes pride in helping ensure that the Center remains a strong and accessible resource for the entire community.
Project Web Content Coordinator
Annlisa Wilson
Annalisa Wilson serves as Project Web Content Coordinator and Project Coordinator for the Quitman County Arts Council and Culture Center, where she manages the organization’s website and supports program coordination. With a background in Psychology focused on Early Child Development and mental health, she brings a thoughtful, people-centered approach to her work, helping ensure programs are accessible, inclusive, and engaging. Annalisa is committed to strengthening the center’s impact and fostering a welcoming creative space for artists and the community.
Our Partners
