Aryana Anderson ’09
Aryana Anderson ’09 is a narrative strategist, cultural theorist, and media producer dedicated to advancing equity and inclusion in arts, culture, and public interest storytelling.
“With over a decade of experience spanning nonprofits, media, and higher education, I design and execute strategies that amplify underrepresented voices, strengthen cultural infrastructure, and connect communities through powerful narratives.
“My work bridges strategic communications, policy-informed storytelling, and cultural program design. I have led impact-driven projects for institutions such as Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theater. I have advised artists and cultural organizations on digital strategy, audience engagement, and narrative framing.”
Anderson holds an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Workplace Democracy and Community Ownership (CUNY School of Labor and Urban Studies) and is pursuing an MA at Union Theological Seminary.
As a producer and director, Anderson has created and produced content for the Apollo Theater, Carnegie Hall, and other nonprofit and educational organizations. Projects she has worked on have been seen on PBS, World Channel, and Medici TV.
She edited the documentary feature Taking the First Step (2012). She was the Digital Producer for Thomas Allen Harris’ documentary series Family Pictures USA (2019).
Anderson has organized play festivals, reading series, and professional development events for artists in various disciplines. Her background includes work as a projection and sound designer, video editor, and media arts educator.
Anderson has served on the Americans for the Arts Emerging Leaders Advisory Council and is a junior board member of the Queens Council on the Arts, where she has helped develop programs and resources to promote the growth, development, and sustenance of emerging arts professionals both locally and nationwide.
She was a member of the inaugural Diversity in Arts Leadership Labs cohort at the Arts and Business Council of New York.
She received her training in screenwriting and production in the former Dramatic Writing BFA program (now Playwriting and Screenwriting BA).