Ruby Gonzalez Hernandez

I’m going back to college after 10 years…and I'm throwing a Pink Birthday Party! Please consider a donation and also joining me for pinkest party of the summer to help support my education at the University of New Haven. All funds will help offset the cost of tuition, books, art supplies, and other educational expenses so I can focus on earning my degree in Art and Creative Technology. No sweepstakes, giveaways, or promotions are offered in exchange for any donations made to this GoFundMe. Scroll to the end for the party details! Art is the way that helps me understand myself and connect with others. For about a decade (since I was about 17!), I've dedicated myself to building connections through art and education. I founded Fair-Side, a community of practice that creates space for artists to gather, collaborate, and support one another outside of traditional institutional structures. I've worked as a Teaching Fellow at The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, supporting high school students through photography education, and supported university students in the Photography Department at Southern Connecticut State University. And, I speak out about unfair and illegal workplace practices happening in arts nonprofits. Outside of the arts, I also worked as a paraeducator at Hill Central Music Academy, where I provided individualized support to students with special educational needs. Unfortunately, without a degree a lot of doors aren’t open to me, even though I hold the necessary experience. But through it all, I somehow find myself with a goal in my heart that has always been the same: to support people in their journey to be empowered to grow. Art therapy is something I’m interested in exploring as a career. I'm asking my community for help in investing in my education. I've been honored to receive recognition from the Arts Council of Greater New Haven, Yale University, United Way, NBA (yes the basketball people), and Facing History & Ourselves. I've also had the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors at MakeHaven, kicking off the start to create a sexual harassment policy and DEI committee. It’s reinforced my belief that art, education, and community have the power to transform lives. If you've ever supported my work, attended a Fair-Side gathering, collaborated with me, been part of one of my programs, or simply just believe in me, I hope you'll consider donating. Returning to college is one of the biggest decisions I've ever made, but I’m ready to give it all I’ve got. Thank you for believing in me and for helping make this next chapter possible. I hope to celebrate with you. ALL THE DETAILS: Theme: PINK! August 1st, 2026 @ 7 PM Bregamos Community Theatre, 491 Blatchley ave, New Haven, ct 06513 Beer and wine Light bites