A second NEA grant of $18,200 will support “Rooted & Rising,” an artist residency program at the Community Folk Art Center (CFAC), a University-affiliated cultural hub dedicated to promoting artists of the African Diaspora. The residency is directed by Tanisha Jackson, executive director of CFAC and assistant professor of African American studies in A&S. The grant will allow a program beginning in summer 2026 continuing through the end of 2027 that will support four artists over the two-year period. In addition to interacting with students in A&S programs, the artists will develop workshops, exhibitions, talks and free public events.