Rehabilitation Through the Arts is proud to announce the appointment of program alum Jermaine Archer as its next Executive Director. While incarcerated at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, Archer was a leader in RTA’s arts programs at the facility. After his release in 2020, he joined RTA’s Board of Directors. On Feb. 18, he will become the second Executive Director in RTA’s 29-year history.
Archer brings his unique vision and personal experience to his new role at the helm of RTA. Most recently, he was a Program Associate for the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies Criminal Justice Grantmaking team, where they oversaw a budget of $40 million dollars and implemented grants to more than 80 organizations.
“This is a full circle with a full heart moment. RTA changed my life. It’s more than an organization to me; it’s family, and it feels good to be coming home. RTA is a creative outlet but also a community and a path to a better life. I have experience on both sides of the wall, and I’m honored and excited to play a lead role in ushering in this exciting new chapter of growth for RTA — reaching as many people as possible with these essential programs and transforming our criminal legal system into one based on dignity, respect, creativity, and possibility.” – Jermaine Archer
While incarcerated, Jermaine earned a Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences from Mercy University, a Master’s degree in Professional Studies from the New York Theological Seminary, and obtained his paralegal certification and taught himself several languages. Shortly after his release, he was invited to work with The Legal Aid Society of Westchester County as a Paralegal, advocating for clients in sentence mitigation. Although no longer affiliated with Legal Aid, Jermaine continues to broaden his impact with his involvement in community outreach, advocacy, empowerment, and organizing with community coalitions.
“As an RTA Board Director who has worked closely with Jermaine for three years and as Chair of the Executive Search Committee, I’m thrilled he will be RTA’s next Executive Director. RTA is about allowing individuals to unlock their potential and empower them to change their lives. Jermaine has done that on an exponential level, giving back to his community and being a powerful leader of change inside and outside prison walls. His lived experience and insights will foster trust and ensure that the organization’s values continue to be a catalyst for personal growth for the individuals RTA serves.” – Sheryl Baker, RTA Board Director
RTA’s work has gained worldwide attention in recent months with the release of the Oscar-nominated feature film Sing Sing, which tells the story of a 2005 production at New York’s Sing Sing Correctional Facility. Starring Colman Domingo, Paul Raci, and several RTA alums and directed by Greg Kwedar, the film is a moving portrait of the power of art to transform lives. Sing Sing has collected honors and awards around the world and is nominated for three Academy Awards. It was also the first film in American history to open in theaters and prisons simultaneously.
This appointment follows the dedicated service of Leslie Lichter, who has been our Interim Executive Director since January 2023. Leslie ensured a seamless transition following the departure of our Founder and previous Executive Director, Katherine Vockins, and has successfully laid the groundwork for strategic growth, as well as building and expanding on strong relationships with donors, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision and other key partners. We extend our sincere gratitude to Leslie for her commitment and leadership during this pivotal time.
