Alabama A&M Students Quentell and Butcher Join Museum’s Student Advisory Committee

Two Alabama A&M University students have been chosen to help reimagine how young people experience art in the Rocket City.

Quentell Pentecost, a sophomore graphic design major from Huntsville, Alabama and Somara Butchers, a senior graphic design major from Gadsden, Alabama, have been selected to serve on the Huntsville Museum of Art’s newly formed Student Advisory Committee – an initiative designed to bring fresh, student-centered perspectives into museum programming.

The committee is composed of six students representing colleges across the Huntsville area, including two from UAH, and one from both Calhoun Community College and Athens State University. Members were recommended by professors and selected for their passion, creativity, and potential to connect their peers with the arts.

Alabama A&M Assistant Professor of Art Joe Morales recommended Pentecost and Butchers for the honor.

“I want our efforts and hardships to make art more accessible, approachable and meaningful – encouraging conversation, curiosity,” said Pentecost. “Whether someone falls into the category of a visual artist or simply loves creativity, there should always be a space for them here.”

Audrey Creel, Docent and Tour Programs Coordinator at the Huntsville Museum of Art launched the Student Advisory Committee. Members will attend monthly meetings, brainstorm ideas, offer feedback on program proposals, promote initiatives among their peers, and help plan events that resonate with college audiences.

“I ran for the art committee because I believe in the power of art to inspire, unite, and spark meaningful conversations,” said Butchers. “As someone passionate about creativity and expression, I want to contribute to building an inclusive environment where artists of all backgrounds feel supported and celebrated.”

Creel says the initiative aims to lay the groundwork for student-driven programming that will evolve with each academic cycle.

“This committee is about gaining student perspective and beginning to build programming that meets student needs and expectations,” said Creel.

Dean Peter Eley of the College of Education, Humanities and Behavioral Sciences said the opportunity is not only an honor for the students but also a meaningful connection between Alabama A&M and the local arts community.

“This is exciting news that two of our students will receive an amazing opportunity to serve on this committee,” said Eley. “Working on this committee will expose them to different ideas and people. We look forward to the amazing work that they will do and thank Professor Joe Morales for the forethought of nominating the students.”

Students interested in contributing ideas or offering feedback can complete this short survey.