A recent report from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) has reaffirmed what many have long believed — arts education has a profound and positive impact on the academic, social and emotional development of school-age children.

However, this crucial aspect of education is under threat due to federal funding cuts to the Department of Education, the National Endowment for the Arts and other agencies and programs that support arts education. These cuts mainly affect schools in underserved communities, limiting access to creative development.

Melody Walker aims to fill the gaps for children who share her passion for the arts through The Society, hopes a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing, exposing and promoting young talent in the arts. As president of the Richmond chapter, she is committed to supporting and showcasing creative talent. Her enthusiasm harkens back to her days in Richmond Public Schools where she played the flute in the band.

“There’s a feeling when you’re a part of a band,” she said. “It’s so powerful. It’s a feeling of community and belonging.”

For Walker, helping the kids who go on to choose music as a career is uniquely fulfilling.

One student, supported by The Society since middle school, went on to study at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Another student, supported by The Society since age 11, now plays the violin with the Richmond Youth Symphony.

“I love watching them grow into their own as artists,” Walker said.

Although her career in professional development and her work with The Society don’t allow for a lot of downtime, Walker takes time to pursue her love for interior design and gardening. She admits she would have chosen a career in design if she had known she could make a living as a designer.

With two daughters in college, Walker discovers new restaurants, travels, and binge- watches TV shows with her husband, who was her college sweetheart.

“We met during freshman year and became best friends,” Walker said. That foundation made for such a strong relationship.”

Meet a performing arts supporter and this week’s Personality, Mary Walker:

Occupation: Consultant at Women of Color in Pharma.

Date and place of birth: April 14 in Richmond.

Where I live now: Glen Allen.

Education: Bachelor’s in biology with a psychology minor from The College of William & Mary.

Family: Husband, Derrick Walker; daughters, Kyndall and Klyne; dog, Kingston; mother, Joyce Randolph-Sutton; father, Lloyd Randolph.

What is The Society: We’re a national nonprofit organization of women dedicated to enhancing, exposing, and promoting children in the arts for the betterment of our communities. As volunteers, we recognize and showcase the exceptional talent of young artists by organizing programs that celebrate these artists and encourage charitable contributions to support their artistic growth and development.

Mission: To promote friendship and social exchange among members; to function as a resource for young people in the arts; and to promote educational, civic and cultural experiences within the community.

When and where founded: In May 1983, four visionary women, Celeste Burton, Davetta Madison, Dorothy Patton and Myrtle Roane, founded The Society in Washington, D.C., to foster friendship among professional women of color and promote the arts among young people.

When was the Richmond Chapter of The Society founded: We were chartered on Jan. 9, 1994.

Local founders: The Richmond Chapter was organized by Iris Dance. Charter members are: Christine Ballard, Lelia Foster Banks, Paula Brown, Iris Dance, Barbara Jackson-Ingram, Lerla Joseph, Betty Pinn, La Vorne Reavis, Jacquelyn Thomas and Esther White.

Number of local members: We have 21 active members and 13 life members.

Number of national chapters: The Society has 33 chapters across the U.S., providing scholarships, grants, stipends and other opportunities to help young people experience the exciting dimensions of artistic expression.

What it takes to be a member of The Society: The Society is specifically designed for professional women of color dedicated to serving and promoting the arts. Membership requires a commitment to foster friendship among members and contribute to community service, mainly supporting young people in the arts. Members are expected to actively engage in the organization’s events, programs and service projects, helping to recognize and support youth artists.

Why I became affiliated with The Society: I joined The Society in April 2020 to become more engaged in my community and expand my social network as we navigated the pandemic.

With my youngest child nearing high school graduation and my oldest entering college, I found myself with more personal time to dedicate to activities that enrich my life and broaden my social connections. The Society was a perfect fit. The members’ warmth and inclusivity made their mission resonate deeply with me.

When elected Richmond Chapter president: I was sworn in as president in June of 2024. 

No. 1 goal as Richmond Chapter president: To establish the Richmond Chapter of The Society as a widely recognized organization, known for its dedication to supporting youths in the arts.

The strategy for achieving the goal: Forging strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations to enhance our mission through collaborative artistic initiatives. I want to increase membership and cultivate collaborative partnerships to amplify our impact, elevate The Society’s presence, and further our mission of empowering young artists.

Our biggest challenge: Fundraising and membership growth.

Expanding our membership is essential to distributing the responsibilities required to sustain and grow our initiatives. We need individuals with a passion for the arts and experience in marketing, graphic design, fundraising and strategic planning to help drive the organization forward. Additionally, increasing our financial resources will allow us to enhance our programs and scholarships to reach more young artists and establish stronger partnerships within the arts community.

Who we partner with locally: Public schools in Richmond and Henrico, the Richmond Boys Choir, The Butcher Brown Jazz Quintet, Musical Creations Foundation, the Black History Museum of Virginia, Virginia State University Gospel Chorale, performers from the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra, Cade Foundation, Richmond Behavioral Health, Mending Fences and Naima Burrs, director of orchestral activities at Virginia State University

How I have seen The Society make a difference in Richmond: The Society has significantly impacted Richmond’s youths by providing financial and programmatic support to young artists over the past 30 years. We have sponsored fees for symphony programs, traveling performances, and community arts festivals, ensuring that talented students have access to enriching artistic experiences.

Through funding for master classes, summer camps and scholarships, we have helped students develop their skills and pursue their creative passions during their middle, high school and college years. Additionally, all showcase participants receive a donation to support their music and arts education, helping to equip them with the necessary supplies for their school programs.

Why the arts are vital to our youths: The arts speak to your spirit. Whether experiencing the art as an observer or actively creating and performing, the experience is deeply enriching and empowering.

Beyond creative expression, the arts are crucial in personal development, building confidence and emotional resilience, and a sense of belonging.

Studies have shown that youths involved in the arts perform better academically, develop stronger problem-solving skills, and are less likely to engage in risky behaviors.

Providing access to artistic opportunities not only nurtures talent but also offers a positive outlet for self-discovery and mental well-being. I have seen firsthand how the arts transform lives, and I am committed to expanding these opportunities for young artists.

How to help the Richmond Chapter of The Society further its mission: By donating, you’ll help us expand our programs and ensure that the arts remain accessible to underserved communities. Your support provides opportunities for talented youth who might otherwise miss out on arts education due to financial barriers. Email us at societyincrva@gmail.com for more information.

Upcoming events: We are hosting a panel discussion, “Artistry Unlocked: Navigating Careers in the Arts,” on April 11. This is an invitation-only, 100-student event in collaboration with Richmond High School for the Arts. While we have reached our maximum, we plan to have similar programming for additional students in the Richmond area. 

Our Biennial Showcase, our signature event celebrating young artists and their incredible talents, will be in 2026. As part of our commitment to supporting youths in the arts, each participating school or artist receives funds to help cover the costs of art supplies, music programs, or other artistic needs. We look forward to sharing more details as the date approaches!

How I start the day: After enjoying my morning coffee, I dedicate a few minutes to closing my eyes, taking some deep breaths and reflecting on aspects of my life for which I am grateful.

The three words that best describe me: Dependable, empathetic and enthusiastic. 

Dream dinner party guest: I would invite Michelle Obama because I admire her relatable personality and ability to balance multiple roles with grace.

Top three on my playlist: Sade, Snoh Alegra and Kendrick Lamar.

Something I love to do that most people would never imagine: Yard work.

Inspirational quote: “Gratitude turns what we have into enough…” by Melody Beattie.

Person who influenced me the most: My fourth-grade teacher, Mrs. Dunn, who helped me find my voice at a very young age and instilled leadership qualities that have served me throughout my life.

Next goal: Be very intentional about making consistent time for self-care.