The Worcester Cultural Coalition welcomes five new board members to its Board of Directors. Each selected board member demonstrates passion for the arts, leadership and a commitment to collaboration. Board members play a vital role in shaping the vision and direction of the arts and culture in our community. Bord members attend bi-monthly board meetings, contribute to active discussions and decision making and bring a collaborative spirit to strengthen and support Worcester’s creative sector. Learn more about our new board members below:
Troy B. Thompson
For over 30 years, Troy has combined design, photography, and technology as a creative and social entrepreneur to bring people together. As a web designer, he has helped nonprofits, universities, government entities, and small businesses reach wider audiences while improving accessibility and productivity. As a professional photographer, he specializes in cultural, community, and private events, capturing not just moments but the emotion, connection, and spirit behind them.
His nonprofit, the No Evil Project, uses art, humor, and conversation to challenge stereotypes and help people find commonality and understanding despite their differences. The project connects people at festivals, gives a voice to underrepresented communities, brings colleagues closer, fosters diversity conversations in colleges, and supports anti-bullying programs in schools. He has photographed over 11,000 people and produced 20+ exhibits tackling the stigma around race, gender, health, and domestic violence.
Fei Wu
Fei Wu is the founder and creator of Feisworld, a media company and podcast celebrating creative entrepreneurs and community changemakers. She is also the co-founder of Xiang Li Art, a mother-daughter collaboration that showcases traditional Chinese painting and cultural storytelling through exhibitions across the United States, including the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, Harvard Museums, and the New England Botanic Garden. Fei produced and directed the documentary series, Feisworld, now streaming on Amazon Prime featuring guests such as Chris Voss, Sarah Cooper and Seth Godin. As a Global Ambassador for Adobe, she helps creators explore new possibilities with digital tools, and as a contributing writer for CNET, ZDNet, PC Magazine, and other Ziff Davis publications, she covers the intersection of technology, creativity, and human connection. A proud resident of Worcester County, Fei is passionate about expanding access to the arts and amplifying diverse voices through storytelling and innovation.
Patrice Beckford
Patrice Beckford, MA, SHRM-CP, CNP, is an executive HR and DEI leader dedicated to advancing equity, engagement, and organizational excellence. As Senior Director of People & Culture at The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory, she shapes inclusive workforce strategies that strengthen culture and talent development. A certified nonprofit professional and maternal health advocate, Patrice empowers young people and underrepresented communities through mentorship and advocacy.
Mary Ellen Tisdell
Mary Ellen Tisdell is a Worcester native and a 2023 graduate from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst and Quinsigamond Community College. She has been richly involved with the poetry and writing community of Worcester, and has been academically and professionally trained in Theatre Arts. She currently works in nonprofit management in Worcester.
Tuyet Tran
Tuyet Tran is the Chief Executive Officer of the Southeast Asian Coalition of Central Massachusetts (SEACMA). She is passionate about using art and culture to build connection and belonging. Guided by the belief that everyone is an artist, Tuyet works to create spaces where diverse voices are celebrated and communities can thrive through creativity.
