Melida Rodas

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Multi-media Artist I Curator I Writer I Educator 

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I work and play here:   Asbury Park I New York I Jersey City I Central America 

Born in Guatemala, Melida works as a Marketing Consultant and Strategist. She is a fierce advocate for equality & social justice, especially with regard to affordable housing, education and the arts. Melida has been recognized by The State of New Jersey, The County of Hudson, The City of Jersey City for her work involving the community, art, and literature. Her work has appeared in anthologies from publishers such as Oxford University Press, Pearson Press, and The Feminist Press. In 2013, Rodas was chosen by Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop, to serve as the first inaugural poet for the municipality. On July 1, 2013, she delivered her poem, “There in a City, OUR, Jersey City ” before an audience of 2,000 people. As guest speaker she has presented her works at numerous universities and conferences. Her visual art has been showcased in various galleries & museums. Most recently her essay “Art as a Spiritual Experience” was featured in the Pedagogical Journal, "Transformations." In 2022 Denise Ridley nominated Melida as Ward A representative for The Jersey City Arts and Culture Trust Fund Committee, which focuses on diversity, equity and inclusionary practices in art and culture planning. As committee representative for Ward A, Melida co-founded the group “Greenville Arts Crossroads,” a group of passionate artists and activists who highlighted the power and talent of their Greenville neighborhood at this year's Jersey City Artists Studio Tour. Independently, Rodas volunteers as Social Media and Public Relations Director for the group and works on recruiting organizations and individuals who via the arts are committed to creating and sustaining a culture of inclusion, equity and justice. As a former educator, Melida works tirelessly in creating a network of artists and activists who believe in sharing resources and ideas which benefit children, individuals  &  neighborhoods lacking privilege, exposure and space. Her wish is to create the groundwork for healthier and happier communities via art, music and poetry for generations to come.

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Fine Arts and Education

New Jersey City University, Jersey City, NJ

Photography, Sculpture, Multimedia Projects, Teachers Certification Grades K-12

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Master Poets Program

Under the Direction of Marie Ponsot 

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Poet House, New York, NY

Poetry, Literature