Hear Valencia K. Long respond to the exhibition Quantum Shift, featuring work by light and space artists Gisela Colón, currently on view in the gallery. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A. Free and open to the public. RSVP in advance at info@tephraica.org for Zoom Room link and password. Sponsored by Reston Community Center.
Biography
Mrs. Valencia K. Long is a social entrepreneur, professor, mentor, and a dedicated champion for girls and young women. She believes in encouraging women to acknowledge and harness their power, thrive in confidence, and develop a voice unafraid to speak up and speak out. Grounded with the conviction to speak honestly, integrity and self-respect are the core standards she leads with and seeks to instill in others.
Mrs. Long’s inescapable calling cultivated by her professional career and unique exposure in the fashion and beauty industries is what propelled her to found, MissFancyPants, Inc., - a non-profit organization whose mission is to empower girls and young women to embrace their natural beauty, celebrate their talent, and cultivate positive esteem and respect for self and others. For over a decade, Mrs. Long has developed an evolving fashion, arts, fitness, and leadership-based curriculum with a reach that has directly impacted over 2,000 girls and women globally and has operated successful programs at numerous institutions, inclduing The YMCA, The Boys and Girls Club, The Reston Teen Center, and James Madison University.
Mrs. Long received a B.A. in Fashion Merchandising with a minor in Dance & Choreography from Virginia Commonwealth University and a M.A Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Women and Gender Studies. She currently teaches in the African and African American Studies department at George Mason University.