Michael Trakas-Lawlor
Treasurer and Production Manager
Michael, is responsible for sets, lighting, sound, and many other aspects to our productions and performances. His theatrical background ranges from dance and singing, to musicals and plays. He is a performer as well as a director and backstage worker.
His experience has seen him perform in many locations throughout the US as well as London, UK. Michael’s day job is working with Ohio’s first responders and law enforcement officers.
Samantha Schofield
Public Relations, Chair
Samantha Schofield designs the programs, signage, and direct mail marketing for Oyo Dance Company. She earned a BFA in Visual Communication Design from Hartford Art School in Connecticut and has been sharing her graphic designer talents with the community for 20 years. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Samantha is honored to support Oyo and their commitment to fostering an inclusive dance company here in Columbus. When not working with Oyo, Samantha is raising two children with her husband, Chris.
Nikkia Knudsen
Outreach, Chair
Nikkia Knudsen is originally from Kent, Ohio. In her professional life, she is an Associate in the Health Care Group at Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease in Columbus, Ohio. Prior to joining Vorys, Nikkia earned her Bachelors of Science and her Master of Health Administration from The Ohio State University. She earned her Juris Doctor degree from Syracuse University College of Law. Nikkia grew up dancing – from the age of three to seventeen in all styles of dance from ballet to Irish dance. She is passionate about the Oyo mission of increasing diversity within the art of dance and promoting access to the arts for all communities. She currently sits as the chair of the Outreach Committee.
Elizabeth Weiss
Company Detailing
Elizabeth Weiss designs, constructs and, coordinates costumes for principal dancers and guest artists. She has been sewing for thirty years and has a unique ability to make costumes that enhance the relationship between the dancers’ bodies and the choreography of the piece.
When not working with Oyo, Dr. Weiss teaches psychology for The Ohio State University Newark, where she has been since 2002. Her passion as an educator carries over easily to her work promoting the Company, where she sees countless opportunities to enrich the lives of others through the arts.
Ángel (Angelo) – Rodriguez
Grants and Planning
Angelo Arroyo-Rodríguez became a long-time resident of Columbus after he moved from Puerto Rico to attend graduate school at The Ohio State University and learned to love Columbus’ midwestern charm. As city and regional planner, environmental scientist and biologist, Dr. Arroyo-Rodríguez strongly believes that dance art forms can positively impact personal wellness and are essential for the enjoyment of the urban (and rural) experience. He believes that dance can be a powerful agent of change to make arts more accessible and inclusive, hence, he couldn’t miss the opportunity to support Oyo in their mission to be an inclusive, equitable and accessible dance company. His role as a board member includes strategic planning, grant writing, coordinating the front of the house at events, Spanish translator, and assisting the Artistic Director.
Dianne Garlinger
Outreach
Dianne Garlinger became acquainted with Oyo through training for a charity dance event and quickly fell in love with the community of people and the mission and vision of Oyo. She has performed in music and theater throughout her life and is passionate about ensuring the arts are accessible to everyone.
Serving as the Treasurer of the Board of Directors for Oyo ties in nicely with Dianne’s professional experience in accounting and human resource management. She currently serves as a project analyst at Elford where she manages the financial risk of construction projects in the multi-family, student housing, and senior living market sectors. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Education for Lancaster City Schools.
Dianne shares life with her husband Tony and they are the proud parents of four children.
Kate North
Planning and Fundraising
Michael Darr
Advisory Board, Webmaster and Technical Support
Matt Keasal
Advisory Board, Music and Vocal Consultant