Erick Deshaun Dorris is an artist and educator as well as a cofounder and administrator for United In Excellence, an education advocacy and community arts program in his hometown of Joliet, IL. He produces "WERKSHOP," a series of live performances and recordings featuring nationally-renowned musicians and vocalists. Erick has developed arts education and mentorship programs at Steppenwolf, Lookingglass, Fort Knox Studios, and Chicago Public Schools. He previously served the Director of Curricular Enhancements for a network of 30+ schools where he oversaw arts education and after-school programs. Dorris currently sits on the Board of Inspectors for Joliet Public Schools. He also serves as an advisory or board member to the Greater Joliet Alliance for Youth, Ingenuity, and the NAACP - Joliet Branch #3018. Erick holds a BA from Millikin University and a Masters from Roosevelt University's Chicago College of Performing Arts.