For Berlinda Fontenot-Jamerson, art has never been something to admire from afar, but a  tool for connection, education, and empowerment. A proud Angeleno, starting in Pacoima and ending in Inglewood, she has spent her life building bridges between culture and community, believing that representation in the arts can transform how people see themselves and where they come from.

After receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Psychology and a Master’s degree in Business Administration, she began her path in the corporate world, where she built a successful career in human resources and diversity leadership. Berlinda became highly regarded as a trailblazer in the field of diversity management, and opened doors to corporate careers and boardrooms for multiple generations of African Americans and other people of color at many large corporations including Disney and ABC.

But her passion always pulled her toward cultural work and to the stories, creativity, and resilience that define Los Angeles’ Black community. That passion led her to the Museum of African American Art, where she has served for decades as its volunteer President and CEO, until a few years ago. 

As Board Chair of Destination Crenshaw, Berlinda is bringing her art passion and her expertise in diversity leadership to help build a board and staff from the ground up. For Berlinda, this work is personal because she loves Los Angeles so much. It’s about making sure future generations don’t just see art; they see themselves reflected in it.