Shana Bestock

Place: Seattle

Biography:

Shana Bestock is a transformational educator, quickly identifying what lies within her students and bringing it to the fore, to the sphere of interaction with others where gifts can be realized. She is an artist-in-residence with classrooms, schools and colleges, and professional development programs, and partners with international organizations to build sustainable programs that meet their goals. Shana believes passionately in youth ownership and agency, supporting their access to professional resources, and providing rigor and structure in a culture of inclusiveness, fun, and faith in their ability to succeed beyond their own imaginations. She is also a director and actor, with a career that includes work with Seattle Repertory Theater, Seattle Public Theater, and Penguin Productions. Shana has a lifelong passion for multicultural connections, cross-sector partnerships, and using arts as a vehicle for social and environmental justice. She is also a folk dancer and Pacific Northwest hiker.