Board

Emily Knapp

President

Emily Knapp is Chief of Staff of the Berggruen Institute, a global think tank with centers in Los Angeles, Venice, and Beijing that forges new conceptual frameworks to meet the challenges, and harness the opportunities, of the arriving future. In her role of Chief of Staff, Emily supports the integration of work across the Institute's research programs, operations, incubated projects, events, communications, and external affairs. She also supports executive leadership to drive long-term strategic initiatives across the Institute's global centers and institutional partnerships with universities and publishers.

Linda
Litteral

Secretary / Resident Artist

A member of Allied Craftsman of San Diego, and Director of the Feminist Image Group, Linda Litteral has taught art at Las Colinas Detention Center and Donovan State Prison. She has also taught at San Diego State University and the San Diego Community College District. In 2018, Linda was awarded a residency at Centre Pompadour in France, an institution that supports women artists creating social change through their art. Linda is also the author of a new memoir, “Show and Tell: Healing From Trauma Through Art.”

Robert S.
Leathers

Co-Founder

An architect who has completed over 2,000 architectural projects in all 50 states and eight foreign countries and an award-winning fiber artist, Bob Leathers has been featured in numerous leading publications and television programs. While maintaining a studio practice, Bob devotes most of his time to developing Space 4 Art’s wholly owned, multidisciplinary, community-based Arts Center, which will serve the entire San Diego region.

Cheryl
Nickel

Co-Founder

A member of Allied Craftsmen of San Diego, Cheryl Nickel holds a master’s degree in landscape architecture and has exhibited in many gallery and museum exhibitions. The founder of Space 4 Art’s educational outreach program, Cheryl is involved in community art projects incorporating STEAM education at schools, parks, and playgrounds, while also maintaining a studio practice.

Sam
Mazzeo

Most people like to think of Sam Mazzeo as an approachable renaissance man. Here are some things he can help you better understand: trademark, business formation & securities, contracts, estate planning, Halloween party planning, how to do a standing backflip, and the proper pronunciation of the word “GIF.” When Sam isn't providing legal advice and empowering his clients, he's either outdoors adventuring or working on local policy and social justice initiatives, often through his volunteer board seats at Space 4 Art, Business For Good San Diego, A Reason to Survive (ARTS), B Local San Diego, Open Roads Academy, and the San Diego Made Factory. He leads with both heart and smarts.

Michael Stepner, FAIA FAICP

Michael Stepner is a Professor Emeritus of Architecture and Urban Design at the NewSchool of Architecture and Design, where he previously served as Dean and Chair of the Architecture Programs. Prior to joining the faculty at the NewSchool, Mike was a member of the San Diego City Planning Department for 28 years, serving as both Planning Director and City Architect. Through both roles, he was the driving force behind the redevelopment of the historic Gaslamp Quarter, and other planning, design and development initiatives.

Lindsey
Suda

A Digital Marketing and Communications expert with 15 years’ experience in the field, Lindsey Suda previously served as a volunteer in guiding the organization’s Social Media strategy. She plays a critical role as thought/implementation partner in executing new philanthropic strategies with our staff.

Jacob
Sundstrom

Martha
Zapata

Resident Artist

An artist and researcher with experience in both academia and industry, Jacob Sundstrom is a founding member of the art collective "_____" (Five Underscores) and has created multimedia art installations that have been exhibited worldwide, including venues such as the National Gallery of Art, the Daegu Art Factory, and the Center on Contemporary Art in Seattle. Jacob is currently a data scientist at Thrackle and a resident artist at Space 4 Art.

A longtime community activist, Martha Zapata recently retired from serving as the Director of Community Outreach for San Diego’s City Council District 9. In addition to years of service with the City before retiring, Martha is an ardent volunteer with the San Diego Symphony, the Old Globe Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, and the San Diego Repertory Company.