Miguel Garcia (they/he)

Miguel A. Garcia is a Chicago-based arts advocate and program strategist. For more than a decade, they have co-created inclusive programs, built cross-sector partnerships, and expanded access to creative learning and cultural experiences.

A proud graduate of Chicago Public Schools, Miguel’s connection to the arts began with early access to school music programs and the support of artists and educators through CPS and Merit School of Music—mentors who helped them find their voice, confidence, and purpose through artistic expression. Miguel later studied trombone at Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of Performing Arts with Jay Friedman, principal trombonist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and also a CPS graduate. These formative experiences continue to shape Miguel’s belief in the power of the arts to foster belonging, deepen relationships, and honor community voice.

Building on those early influences, they began their time with Chicago Sinfonietta as a Freeman Fellow—an experience that deepened their commitment to inclusive arts leadership. They later led audience engagement efforts, working with local artists to co-create programs grounded in cultural relevance and collective values.

At Forward Momentum Chicago, Miguel supported fundraising and donor engagement to expand access to youth dance education in communities systemically marginalized in arts investment and opportunity. They also contributed to national learning and equity efforts at StriveTogether, supporting more than 70 communities across the country. In addition, Miguel has collaborated with public agencies, including the Chicago Park District and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), to broaden access to public arts programs, funding, and civic resources.

In 2019, Miguel was a panelist at the League of American Orchestras’ “Engaging the LGBTQ+ Community” session at their National Conference in Nashville, where they shared examples from their work at Chicago Sinfonietta to inspire more inclusive and welcoming classical music spaces. They hold certifications in fundraising and UX design.

Outside of work, Miguel is an avid gardener and rare plant collector who enjoys spending time along the lakefront and finding joy through dance in the vibrant queer spaces created by Chicago’s incredible local organizers. As a queer, bilingual child of immigrants, they carry a deep appreciation for the power of creative spaces to foster belonging and liberation.