E’Vonne Coleman is a cultural warrior, advocating for strategic thought, inclusion, and support for the arts and culture. Recently retired from Discover Durham as Chief Operating Officer, E’Vonne has over 30 years of experience in the arts and 20 years of experience in tourism.  She has held positions with arts councils in multiple cities and worked at the National Endowment for the Arts and Duke University Continuing Studies Office. During her tenure at the NEA, she was assistant director of the Expansion Arts Program where she spearheaded funding to state The Association of American Cultures, International Association of Black Dance and the National Black Theatre Festival among others. E’Vonne was the first African American to direct an arts council in the state of North Carolina. She was an arts lobbyist in Philadelphia and was on the faculty at Goucher College Arts Administration Graduate Program, teaching Leadership and Strategic Thinking.  E’Vonne has served on numerous boards including Grantmakers In the Arts, UNC-Public Television, NCCU Hospitality Advisory Board, Durham Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Durham Inc., Durham Convention & Visitors Bureau, North Carolina Black Arts Coalition, and many  others. She is currently on the boards of Manbites Dog Theater, Durham County Stadium Authority and Durham Cultural Advisory Board. She is a graduate of North Carolina Central University (Theater Major) and The American University Arts Administration Program.  Her personal motto is:  May I live long enough to be of service.