News / Announcements
News / Announcements
Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) boasts a rich legacy of producing graduates who excel in their chosen fields and make significant contributions to their communities. Distinguished alumna Daisha Board, class of 1999, is among the best examples of how a Bethune-Cookman education can pave the way for groundbreaking achievements.
Recently named to Dallas television station WFAA's “Shaping DFW” list, Board is being celebrated as an art and community leader in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. According to the station's website, the honor is given to those who build upon a strong foundation of purpose and grit; they dare to raise themselves to great heights to stand triumphant over adversity and critics alike.
Board’s path to the pinnacle of success in the art world may have been considered less than guaranteed. But, born and bred in Queens, New York, she discovered her love for art early on.
Journeying south to Bethune-Cookman to study in its political science program, Board found her experiences in the classroom and beyond inspiring. In addition to stellar academic instruction, her time at the university deepened her appreciation for her cultural heritage and identity, shaping her perspective on life and career.
A pivotal moment in Board's life came in 2017 when she faced a layoff from her finance and real estate career. Undeterred, she seized the opportunity to follow her passion for art. Immersing herself in the art scene, she collaborated with various galleries and museums, refining her exhibition curation and artist collaboration skills.
In 2021, Board realized her dream with the establishment of Daisha Board Galleries in Dallas, Texas. The gallery quickly gained recognition for its commitment to showcasing diverse contemporary art and promoting underrepresented artists.
However, the pinnacle of Board's achievements came in April 2023 when she made history by opening the first Black woman-owned contemporary art gallery in Downtown Dallas, located at The Joule Hotel. This achievement underscores her dedication to increasing visibility for marginalized artists and providing a platform for diverse voices in the art world.
Photos by Jacob Carroll
Beyond her gallery endeavors, Board actively contributes to the University of North Texas College of Visual Arts and Design Board and the Dallas Galleries for Advocacy Board. Her commitment to philanthropy, arts education, and supporting local artists aligns with the values instilled in her at Bethune-Cookman University.
Daisha Board attributes much of her success to the lessons of resilience, strength, and grace she learned at Bethune-Cookman University. The legacy of the university's founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, serves as a constant source of inspiration, encouraging her to navigate her career with courage and determination.
“Bethune-Cookman University was not just about acquiring education,” reflected Board. “It was about embracing my identity and learning the power of using culture and history to uplift others.”
Daisha Board's story is one of inspiration, illustrating how a Bethune-Cookman education lays the groundwork for extraordinary achievements. As she continues to make waves in the art world, she proudly carries forward B-CU's legacy of excellence and service, exemplifying the transformative power of education.
