Today we’d like to introduce you to Traci Leon.
Hi Traci, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Traci Leon, CEO of Young At Art Museum, a nonprofit that’s been serving our community for 37 years through the power of art.
My journey began in the classroom, where I spent 25 years as a Broward County Public Schools teacher, many of those in gifted education. Over time, I saw firsthand how art and creative learning were slowly being reduced as school budgets tightened. Yet I also saw how powerful those creative moments were for students, art helped them build confidence, communicate their ideas, manage stress, and connect with one another. It became very clear to me that creativity isn’t extra, it’s essential.
After teaching, I moved into the small business side of education and spent more than five years building and running four coding centers for children. Coding, much like art, is another creative language. It gives kids a way to think differently, solve problems, and express themselves. That experience reinforced my belief that when we give children creative outlets, we’re giving them tools for life.
When the opportunity at Young At Art came along, it felt like the perfect next chapter. The museum’s mission aligns deeply with my own belief that art should be accessible to everyone, not just a privilege for a few. Today, I have the privilege of working with an incredible team to expand access to creative experiences, support mental wellness, and create inclusive spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can feel connected through art.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but honestly, the challenges have been a huge part of the journey and growth.
Coming into the nonprofit sector from a small business perspective was both exciting and eye-opening. When I first stepped into this role, Young At Art was really just hanging on. My first priority was to listen, observe, and assess what the organization truly needed. From there, I had to make some big and sometimes difficult decisions — especially around restructuring staff to create a more efficient, supportive workplace. We focused on hiring people with specific skill sets so we could reduce turnover and build a happier, more sustainable team.
At the same time, we worked hard to rebuild and strengthen relationships with past supporters and donors while also welcoming new partners into the fold. Expanding and re-energizing our board was another major focus, helping create stronger engagement and shared ownership of our future.
Financially, we had to dig deep into the budget, setting more achievable goals and cutting overhead wherever possible so we could focus resources on the programs and the community we serve.
Today, less than two years later, the organization is thriving, our community relationships are stronger than ever, and we’re now working toward a capital campaign for a new permanent space. That’s incredibly exciting.
But I’d be lying if I said it’s been easy. There have definitely been sleepless nights, weekends and vacations spent on call, and a lot of hard work behind the scenes. Still, I love our team, believe deeply in our mission, and see firsthand the positive impact we have on our community and that makes every challenge absolutely worth it.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Young At Art Museum?
Young At Art Museum is a nonprofit children’s art museum dedicated to nurturing creativity, confidence, and connection through hands-on art experiences. At our core, we believe every child is an artist and deserves access to creative expression, no matter their background, abilities, or financial circumstances.
We specialize in immersive, interactive art education. Everything we do is designed to be participatory, families don’t just look at art here, they make it, explore it, and become part of it. From museum exhibits and workshops to camps, school programs, and community outreach, our focus is on creative learning that supports social-emotional growth, problem-solving, and self-expression.
What sets us apart is our commitment to accessibility and inclusion. We intentionally remove barriers so all children can experience the power of art. That includes free and reduced programming, sensory-friendly events, partnerships with schools and community organizations, and outreach programs that bring art directly into classrooms and neighborhoods. We serve children of all abilities and learning styles, creating spaces where every family feels welcome and represented.
We’re especially proud of the way our brand connects art with community impact. Families know us as a joyful, welcoming place where creativity feels safe and celebrated. Educators and partners know us as a trusted resource for arts education and enrichment. Supporters know us as an organization that stretches every dollar to create meaningful opportunities for children.
Ultimately, we want readers to know that we are more than a museum, we are a creative hub and community partner. Our programs spark imagination, build confidence, and create lifelong connections to the arts. And as we continue growing toward a new permanent home, our goal is simple: to ensure every child in our community has the opportunity to discover the power of their own creativity.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I would never tell this story without recognizing the incredible people who built the foundation we stand on today. First and foremost, I’m deeply grateful to the founders of Young At Art Museum, Esther Shrago and Mindy Shrago, a visionary mother–daughter duo. They launched the museum in 1987 as a “museum without walls” to fill a critical gap in arts education and, with the support of the community, opened the first physical museum space just two years later. Their passion, creativity, and belief in the power of art created the organization we’re so proud to grow today.
I’m also incredibly thankful for our community of local artists who continuously share their talent, time, and heart with us. They help keep our programming vibrant and connected to the creative community we serve.
And of course, our team deserves tremendous recognition. We have dedicated staff members who have been part of Young At Art for decades, one team member has been here for more than 20 years, and several others have served for over 10. Their commitment, institutional knowledge, and love for our mission are the reason we’ve been able to grow and thrive.
This work is truly collaborative. Our success is the result of passionate founders, committed staff, supportive artists, and a community that believes in the power of art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://youngatartmuseum.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngatartmuseum/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YoungAtArtMuseum
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traci-leon-771687371
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@YoungAtArtMuseum
