FOUNDING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As Founding Executive Director of The Alcove, Amanda E. Strauss (she/her) dedicates her work to uplifting women and gender expansive people.

With a life and career shaped by deep, intergenerational networks of women, she proudly leads this organization committed to building transformative communities and propelling collective creativity through art, writing, and meaningful gathering spaces.

Amanda spent a decade at Harvard's Schlesinger Library on the History of Women in America, preserving and uplifting women's stories and voices through teaching, programming, and collaborative projects. With a compelling and bold vision for change, she was recruited as Director of Brown University's John Hay Library—the first woman in this role—where she left a permanent legacy, transforming collections and physical spaces during her five-year tenure.

She holds a Master of Arts in History and Master of Science in Library and Information Science from Simmons University, in addition to a Bachelor of Arts in History and Spanish from Willamette University.

Amanda has lived in Chile and across the nation, from Colorado to New Mexico, Oregon, Washington, and Massachusetts. A poet, textile artist, and gymnast, she is now rooted in Rhode Island, where she can often be found in her garden.

INAUGURAL CURATOR & PROGRAM MANAGER

Khamry Varfley (she/her) is the Inaugural Curator & Program Manager for The Alcove.

She is a Certified Entrepreneur Librarian Specialist and has expertise in fostering economic growth and educational opportunities, particularly for underrepresented communities having previously served as Entrepreneur Specialist for the Community Libraries of Providence. She continues to inspire positive change in the communities she serves as a member of the Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. 

She holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration & Marketing from Johnson & Wales University as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology & Behavioral Neuroscience from Rhode Island College.   

Khamry is a Rhode Island native and avid illustrator. She can be found perusing the aisles of local bookstores, art supply stores, or trying new coffee spots.

OPERATIONS MANAGER

With over a decade of experience across museums, galleries, and nonprofits, Mariah Azoti (she/her) brings a deep expertise in arts administration and business management to her role as Operations Manager at The Alcove.

Prior to joining the team, Mariah sharpened her skills in operational leadership, organizational systems development, and strategic communications through previous roles at the American Alliance of Museums, MassArt Art Museum, and a private conservation studio. Today, she applies those talents to streamline processes, manage complex projects, and foster a collaborative work culture.

She holds a Master of Arts in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art, London, and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and Art History from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.

A true New Englander, Mariah is proud to call Rhode Island home. Outside of work, she enjoys capturing the world through her camera lens, exploring new places, and taking long walks with her goldendoodle, Rosie.

Treasurer
Executive Director, Ocean State Charities Trust

Vice President
Executive Director, Latino Policy Institute

Board President
CEO, Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England

Nonprofit Development and Education Administration

Owner, Dupras Law

Secretary
Diversity Director, Supreme Court of Rhode Island

Manager, Forensic & Valuation Services, Sansiveri, Kimball & Co.

Co-managing Partner, Brennan Scungio & Kresge LLP

Director, Community Engagement Initiatives, HopeHealth