Curtis Kendrick
UYMA Executive Director
Curtis Kendrick is a lifelong professional musician, songwriter, producer, multi-instrumentalist and band leader. He is a Billboard-charting recording artist as a member of -- and now band-leader of -- jazz group Cabo Frio.
Always giving back to the community, Curtis has also led a wide range of youth arts programs for over 25 years. As a young boy growing up in Rochester, he was deeply influenced by his experience participating in drumlines -- the original Scott's Sabers, and Mighty Liberators -- which set him on a lifelong path of music. This inspired him to launch United Youth Music and Arts to help provide similar positive experiences for Rochester-area youth, especially in under-served communities.
Individually and with Cabo Frio, Curtis has performed with or been a support act for Kenny G, Spyro Gyra, Joe Sample, Yellow Jackets, Jeff Lorber, Pieces of a Dream, Dave Valentin, Paquito D' Rivera, Cedric Dent of Take 6, Luther Barnes, Phoebe Snow, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts, Jazz Crusaders, Lonnie Mack, Fattbuger, Larry Coryell and the late Lou Rawls, among many others.
Curtis says: "You can accomplish anything if you put your mind to it and stay persistent and disciplined. For me, music is a way to express all of the feelings of daily life -- music heals your soul."
Christopher Johnson
I am a local trial attorney, raised in the Rochester New York area.
I am the father of three adult children. Also, I am an amateur drummer and former member of the Bishop Kearney Marching Kings Drumline. I volunteer at open door mission and a volunteer Scouting USA and a former youth soccer coach.
One of my favorite Vince Lombardi quotes is "Success demands singleness of purpose." I believe that United Youth Music and Arts can provide that road to success for many young people that they desperately need.
Mary Taylor-James
Nazareth College/University 1964-1968
BA in Music Education
SUNY Brockport M.A.L.S. Degree: Master of Arts in Liberal Studies
Music Ed Teacher - RCSD nearly 50 yrs
Director of International Partnership with Antigua, West Indies through Partners of the Americas 25 yrs
Music Director and founder of Urban Steel Band at John Marshall High School
Jocelyn Basley
As a leader, Jocelyn strives to facilitate the development of strong inter/intra-departmental relationships, model continuous improvement and build a capacity for organizational change.
Her innate ability to interact and relate with people from all walks of life is an asset she considers a natural spiritual gift. Cultivating teamwork, inspiring leadership in others and promoting a positive outlook to every undertaking are the tenets to which Jocelyn attributes her personal and professional success.
Janice Howard
Bio coming soon!
Deirdre "Dee" Carter
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Practitioner - KPMG
Deirdre "Dee" Carter has been a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) content creator and instructor since April 2022. She designs interactive sessions and guides participants through learning journeys, which allow them to discover the language of DEI, empathy for the experiences of marginalized groups, and the tools to speak up during difficult situations.
That facilitation skill-set was developed through her past experiences as a Residents Advisor, Peer Mediator, and the President for PwC's New York City Chapter of Toast Masters International. Dee is also a KPMG national facilitator for on-boarding and values focused courses, which strengthen her collagues' understanding of firm culture.
Prior to her career in DEI, Dee was a Resource Manager for six years. She worked with over 20 Partners to assign 300+ staff members, ensuring projects received a balanced team, given the available talent. Earlier in her career, Dee was a tax accountant who prepared the returns for regulated investment companies, hedge funds, and mutual funds.
Mike Holmes
Bio coming soon!
Phillipa Stuart
Phillipa Wynter-Stuart is a passionate and purpose-driven leader, dedicated to fostering supportive environments where young people can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. As a seasoned program director, social work professional, adjunct professor, and behavioral consultant, she brings over 25 years of experience serving youth, families, and communities.
In every role she undertakes, Phillipa consistently advocates for equity, empowerment, and holistic development, uplifting others through her work and presence.
Grounded in her belief that every challenge carries the seed of growth and that resilience has the power to transform lives, Phillipa leads with empathy, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to building stronger, more connected communities.
Bryan Burroughs
Bryan Burroughs is an experienced nursing professional with a diverse background in both education and clinical practice. Currently serving as an Adjunct Professor of Nursing at Bryan & Stratton College since July 2024, Brian brings his real-world experience into the classroom, enriching students' learning experiences. Additionally, Brian has been actively involved in his private practice since 2019, providing personalized care. He also has significant clinical experience with Prime Care Medical at the Monroe County Jail, further demonstrating his expertise in healthcare delivery in unique settings.