Meet the Team
At BACA, our leadership is more than a roster of titles—it’s a collective of visionaries committed to championing Black arts and culture through innovation, access, and sustainability. We are artists, strategists, and cultural stewards driven by a shared mission to elevate underrepresented voices and creative ecosystems.
Executive Director
Doc Wheeler
At BACA, Doc leads efforts to centralize and strengthen Chicago's Black arts ecosystem
through strategic digital infrastructure, governance innovation, and community engagement. Whether through product strategy, organizational leadership, or mentorship, he remains committed to building platforms where Black art and culture can unapologetically flourish.
Development Director
ILesa Duncan
Our Development Director, is a powerhouse of strategic partnerships and fundraising expertise. With a deep background in directing, producing, and organizational growth, ILesa builds bridges between visionary funders and impactful programming that serves both artists and communities.
Management Consultant
Luther Goins
After 16 years as a Business Representative with the Chicago office of Actors’ Equity Association—the union of professional actors and stage managers in the United States—Luther has served as a Theatre Management Consultant for ShawChicago Theatre Company, Congo Square Theatre Company, Music Theater Works, Porchlight Music Theatre, Canamac Productions, Silk Road Rising, Victory Gardens Theater, Lifeline Theatre, and Grippo Stage Company.