SGLAI TEAM

Nate Olison is a teaching artist and the founder of Optimist Comics, which he launched in 2020 as a platform to publish his work. Since then, Optimist Comics has evolved, reflecting Nate’s passion for creating, teaching, and talking about comics full-time. Originally from California, Nate now calls Chicago home, where he continues to inspire others through storytelling and art.

Mariah Balaban has over a decade of experience working with vulnerable youth and adults, specializing in program evaluation, grant writing, and advocacy. With a Master’s in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago, she has worked with organizations including the Illinois Department of Human Services and Northwestern Law’s Children and Family Justice Center. Mariah also volunteers as a development consultant for youth-focused initiatives and as a Court Appointed Special Advocate.

Elgin Bokari T. Smith is a multidisciplinary artist, educator, and social activist from St. Louis, Missouri, with a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. He has collaborated with institutions like the Jane Addams Hull-House Museum and Northwestern University on youth justice projects and served as a teaching artist for numerous Chicago organizations. As co-creator of Pocket Con, Elgin is dedicated to empowering diverse communities through the arts.

Arnold Aprill is a consultant specializing in integrating the arts into education to promote student self-determination and community engagement. He co-authored Renaissance in the Classroom and Education, Arts and Sustainability and founded the Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education. Arnold's work has earned recognition from the Chicago Community Trust, the Ford Foundation, and the Fulbright Scholars Program.

Katie Heard is an artist, educator, and environmental advocate with a BFA in ceramics and photography from Iowa State University. She apprenticed with renowned artist Theaster Gates and served as the founding Visual Arts Coordinator at the Gary Comer Youth Center. Katie also mentored youth nationwide through The Nature Conservancy’s LEAF program, promoting conservation and sustainable practices. As Director of Organizational Development, she combines her passion for art, education, and community empowerment to drive impactful initiatives.

Uran is a hip-hop artist, activist and marketing professional from Chicago. He
was born in Kosovo, and immigrated to Chicago as a refugee in 1999
where he developed his love for music and his passion for justice.