CAMILLE A. BROWN & DANCERS’
INAUGURAL STRATEGIC PLAN 2026-2028
Camille A. Brown & Dancers is excited to release its 2026-2028 Strategic Plan, Audacity in Motion.
This nascent framework serves as a roadmap for alignment, growth, and sustainability to lead the organization into 2028 and beyond. It is important now, more than ever, that CABD fortifies and secures Brown’s legacy given that she is a culture-keeper who unapologetically channels power into and cultivates profound respect of a distinctly African-American lineage of dance–an artistic form that has long been appropriated and devalued. When and where there are threats of erasure, Brown emerges, advocating for and championing our stories to be heard, our history to be seen, and our narratives to be understood. As Camille A. Brown & Dancers approaches its 20th anniversary at the end of 2026, we are equipped with a new mission, values, and strategic goals that will undergird the crucial work we will execute in the coming years.
Referring to the plan, Camille A. Brown & Dancers’ Board Chair Rev. Dr. Diane J. Johnson, Ph.D. notes, “Our wish is this document serves as an entry point into curiosity, dialogue, and partnership with those seeking ways to enliven and herald the transformative power of African-American and African diaspora dance, music and art.” Join us as we embark on this journey to strengthen Camille A. Brown & Dancers for the next 20+ years to come.
Newly revitalized, Camille A. Brown and Dancers mission sets out to guide the organization through its next era of development as proclaimed below:
Camille A. Brown & Dancers unleashes the power of Black dance traditions and cultural narratives through innovation and multidisciplinary storytelling that celebrates resilience, cultivates spaces of joy and liberation, and inspires societal transformation.
COMMUNITY : We recognize and affirm that bringing together an exceedingly wide array of dancers, artists, musicians, community members, youth and passionate lovers of dance inspired and affirming the African diasporic traditions is essential. Our creative vision is made stronger and innovative by convening and gathering those interested, curious and committed to coming together.
LEGACY: We recognize and affirm the essential nature of African and African Diasporic heritage and culture since it serves as the anchor from which we create. Understanding that intergenerational connections and relationships inform how we embody art, culture, movement and dance history from African ancestry. We revel and celebrate in the power, strength and beauty that catalyzes the artistry of CABD.
BLACK JOY: We recognize and affirm the embodiment of Black spirituality, resilience, effervescence and joy which is felt as we fulfill our mission. The rigor of our self-determination and investment in Black cultural innovation & storytelling informs how we do our work.
SOCIAL JUSTICE: We recognize and affirm the idea that equity, equality, and justice within our society is a fundamental component of civilization. Our work, relationships and creativity are informed and influenced by the belief that those historically marginalized be accepted as fully human and deserving of respect and love.
INVESTING IN FUTURE GENERATIONS: We recognize and affirm that engaging and creating opportunities for school aged youth, young adults, emerging artists is essential in cultivating the future of both Black American dance, and dance in general. Our organization reflects the belief that dance, music and art are one of the most powerful and impactful methods of leadership development and civic engagement which builds character, creativity and delight.
1. Artistic Innovation and Cultural Impact
CABD will deepen the impact of its work by activating repertoire, expanding touring, and integrating education and dialogue into artistic programming. This pillar positions CABD as both a producing organization and a cultural platform that connects performance with learning, context, and community engagement.
2. Financial Sustainability and Resource Development
CABD will strengthen its financial model through more strategic fundraising, stronger donor stewardship, and revenue growth connected to artistic programming. The objective is not only to raise more money, but to create a healthier mix of contributed and earned income that supports long-term planning.
3. Organizational Strength and Leadership Development
CABD will build the internal systems needed to support growth, accountability, and execution. This includes governance, budgeting, role clarity, planning cadence, communications infrastructure, and administrative systems that allow the organization to operate more strategically.
Be audacious with us and join our Circle of Abundance with a recurring gift today. As a Rhythm Keeper, your generosity will secure Brown’s legacy for the years to come, providing steady, sustaining support that will ensure we can maintain 100% tuition-free education programs, tour Camille’s groundbreaking repertory, and make space for future genrebending works. To learn more about getting involved, making a major gift, or expanding your impact on our community, please contact our Development Associate, Paulo Hernandez-Farella at Paulo@camilleabrown.org