Haiti Summer Institute 2017
Meghan McGrath is an accomplished nonprofit leader with a strong background in arts education, cultural exchange, and social justice. She currently serves as Executive Director of Jean Appolon Expressions (JAE), a role she has held since 2020. Under her leadership, JAE has grown significantly in organizational capacity, programming, and community impact, advancing its mission to uplift Black dance and voices while promoting anti-racism and healing through the arts.
A key milestone under Meghan’s direction is the development and construction of JAE’s first brick-and-mortar home, set to open in Nubian Square Boston, MA in fall 2025. This dedicated space will serve as a vibrant hub for dance, community engagement, and cultural exchange—further anchoring the organization’s presence and impact in the region.
Meghan brings over a decade of experience with JAE, where she began in 2010 as a founding company member and teaching artist. She has been pivotal in expanding the organization’s educational and cultural programming, including its free Summer Dance Institute (SDI) in Haiti and the Dominican Republic. These immersive experiences continue to shape her commitment to equity, cultural exchange, and transformative arts education.
She holds a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Northeastern University, a BA in Psychology and Dance from UMass Amherst, and an MEd in Creative Arts in Learning from Lesley University. She is also a certified 200-hour yoga instructor and has integrated mindfulness and movement into both her teaching and community service, including volunteer work with Hands to Heart, offering yoga to individuals affected by trauma and addiction.
Prior to her executive role, Meghan performed with Boston’s BoSoma Dance Company and Austin Allegro Dance in Texas, and spent more than 15 years as an early childhood educator, using the arts as a tool for empowerment and inclusion. Her professional journey is rooted in a deep passion for dance, education, and social justice.
Outside of her work, Meghan enjoys cooking, biking, and spending time with her family. She remains deeply grateful to the JAE community and is committed to expanding the organization's reach as a catalyst for dialogue, healing, and cultural understanding through dance.