Testimonials
“Carpe Diem brings out the best in our community by making music, art, and celebration accessible to all of the people of Montgomery County and beyond. I cherish the exuberance, diversity and energy of the Carpe Diem community and am grateful that this remarkable organization is here for us through thick and thin.”
~ US Congressman Jamie Raskin
"Thank you for all you do to bring meaningful arts programming to our area. Our community is very lucky to have such devotion to the arts and education... Your network of talented artists, performers and educators always amazes me."
~ Rob Forloney, Adjunct Faculty, Master of Arts in Cultural Sustainability, Goucher College; Program Developer, Strategic Planning & Cultural Institution Consultant
"It must be said - it’s programs like yours that make this such a great community/county to live in."
~ Eric Rasch, CPM, MPS, Operations Manager Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza
"You can depend on me for my contributions. In these stressful times I believe the arts are more important than ever. They help us to keep our humanity and connect us with so many different people beyond our circle of friends and family. And, or course, they give us so much joy! Thank you for all you do." ~ Patty LeBlanc
“It was a true pleasure to work with Carpe Diem Arts and the students and faculty of ACE Academy. Our community is one of the most diverse in the country, and our strength lies in celebrating that diversity through programs like these. ACE Academy instills pride of heritage, sense of place and safe haven during the after-school hours when supervision can be difficult for working parents. I can think of no greater investment in our collective future. Kudos to Carpe Diem Arts and ACE Academy for their vision, energy and commitment to our community!”
~ Michael Shereikis, ACE Academy Teaching Artist and member of local bands Chopteeth, DC Highlife Stars and Jolly Papa
"What you do for the arts in this area is off the charts wonderful. I am in awe."
~ Betsi Shays
"I'm so glad you keep putting on these diverse events. Carpe Diem Arts is truly a magnet, pulling good people and worthwhile things together."
~ Christiana Drapkin
"I APPRECIATE the Arts-to-You emails you are sending out. What a wonderful service!.... Thank you for all you are doing to promote the arts."
~ Priscilla Fritter Peterson
"Thank you Carpe Diem Arts for enriching our lives and our community by making music and arts so accessible!"
~ Paula Fitz-William
“I can’t say enough about how great the Carpe Diem language immersion arts camps are – terrific role models in the counselors, a chance to get back into the groove of speaking French before school starts, great activities, lots of fun and lots of learning."
~ Jo Rasi, parent of Carpe Diem camper
“Carpe Diem summer camps are awesome. What I most enjoyed about this year’s camp at Seekers were the field trips, and learning to play the ukulele… I am proud of the mirror and potholder I made. I definitely would recommend the camps to everyone because they are fun and you learn to do arts and crafts, sing and dance.”
~ Helina Assefa, camper
“Such a marvelous and inspiring experience!”
~ Pam Trunk, parent of Carpe Diem campers
"My child and I really love the Carpe Diem Arts camps! They thoughtfully create a space that fosters a gentle interaction among the kids and the counselors, creating bonds and infusing them with an appreciation for cultural diversity -- through arts and crafts, world languages, singing and dancing, playing instruments, visiting embassies. Such a rich experience! THANK YOU for making it possible for my daughter to attend -- and for being such an asset to our community."
~ Iane Campos-Siddique, parent of Carpe Diem camper
“I love Carpe Diem Camp... I can learn, play, and speak French with my friends all week.”
~ Eleanor Moose, camper
"You are incredible with how much you are engaged with our immigrant community. Thank you!"
~ Ada Villatoro
“The arts inspire hope, encourage creative expression, strengthen education and celebrate diversity. We must continue to find ways to support the arts in our schools and communities – an essential step in creating a stronger foundation on which to build our future.” ~ Maryland Senator Will Smith -- Advisory Council member, Carpe Diem Arts
"Thank you for such an inspiring program! Sabina enjoyed the Spanish immersion camp so much and is looking forward to next year... She is super excited about the upcoming ukulele performance events, and is practicing every day the songs she learned at camp. Mil Gracias!" ~ Viky Sosa, parent

Michael Shereikis and Eme Awa with ACE (African Arts, Culture & Education) Academy students at Essex House after-school program c/o Carpe Diem Arts & Collaboration Council. PHOTO: Peter Garza