About Us
Our History & Founders' Vision
The Cecily Ricketts Arts Foundation is a private scholarship foundation, founded by Sashai French (Ricketts), a Houston based Jamaican-American operatic Soprano, and her daughter Giselle Cecily, in honor of Cecily Ricketts, her Mother, a Jamaican contemporary mezzo soprano. Her passion for music has profoundly influenced my own journey as a classical musician and impacted the lives of many young singers throughout her life. Her unwavering support has been instrumental in my growth and development. Today, her daughter is a young soprano pursuing classical voice as part of continuing their family's legacy, further inspiring her commitment to this cause.
Founded in 2024, the Cecily Ricketts Arts Foundation emerged from a deep commitment to enhance representation and support for high school students of diverse ethnic backgrounds pursuing classical voice. Inspired by the legacy of Cecily Ricketts, whose love for music has touched the lives of many, our organization was created to address the disparities in access to resources and opportunities needed to study and pursue classical voice.
From our inception, we have focused on providing scholarships, mentorship, and performance opportunities to empower young artists. As we grow, we remain dedicated to fostering an inclusive community that nurtures diverse talent and champions the next generation of classical musicians. Together, we strive to create a vibrant future in the arts where all voices are heard and celebrated.
Our Purpose
At the core of our foundation is a commitment to nurturing and empowering young singers, providing them with the support and opportunities they need to grow and excel in their musical journeys. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are valued and celebrated in the community, ensuring that the future of classical music reflects the rich diversity of our society.
As a student who attended performing arts schools, participated in Allstate and ACDA Honor choirs and various competitions, our founder often encountered lack of representation. Whether it was due to lack of resources or awareness, the students in those rooms weren’t reflective of the diverse society we live in. This realization fueled her desire to create an organization that provides impacted groups with the opportunities and resources they need to receive quality arts education.
Our Commitment
We are committed to identifying and addressing barriers that disproportionately affect BIPOC groups, ensuring that all individuals have the support they need to thrive. Our work is driven by the pursuit of equity, fostering inclusive spaces that uplift marginalized voices and promote long-term change. We believe that talent knows no boundaries, yet many aspiring artists lack the resources and guidance to reach their full potential.
Our foundation is committed to changing that narrative by empowering students with the resources to pursue classical voice and opera. Through scholarships, grants, mentorship programs, and community engagement, we aim to nurture the next generation of diverse classical singers.
Core Values
Equity: Ensuring all students have access to resources and opportunities regardless of background.
Empowerment: Supporting students in their artistic journeys and helping them build confidence and skills.
Diversity: Celebrating and promoting a wide range of cultural perspectives in classical music.
Community: Building a supportive network of artists, mentors, and advocates who uplift one another.
Excellence: Committing to high standards of artistic achievement and personal growth.