Our Story

Express Yourself was founded on belief in the power of artistic expression to change lives.

In 1988, Paula Conrad – educator, choreographer, and dancer – founded Express Yourself to bring creative arts programs to youth in residential and outpatient treatment facilities. Stan Strickland – educator and award-winning musician and performer – joined her as co-executive director in 1995, and together they expanded Express Yourself into a network of professionals, affecting the lives of young people in over 50 Massachusetts cities and towns.

From the beginning, nationally recognized guest artists joined with Express Yourself to collaborate, create, and perform with program youth at our annual year-end celebration. Artists have included Blue Man Group, STOMP, Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart, Broadway dancers, and many others.

Over the past 25 years, we’ve developed a team of creative professionals who care deeply about our community. We know that art can heal and change lives — we see it happen every day. Our team is committed to being a positive, consistent presence in the lives of the youth we serve.

Awards and Recognition

We’re honored that our work has been recognized in the following ways: