Leadership & Advisory
The creative tastemakers behind SASSI have been collaborating for many years — across fashion, journalism, nightlife, museums, and community organizing.
Saul Sugarman
An award-winning journalist for 15 years in San Francisco and editor in chief of The Bold Italic. Since 2015 he has run an independent fashion label creating couture that intersects with activism — from Impulse SF to the SF Ballet Gala and the Kentucky Derby.
Katie Conrad
Co-launched the SF chapter of FLUX, a division of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation advocating for transgender and gender non-conforming people. Former Events Director and President of Impulse SF. She oversees event production, partnerships, and public outreach.
Paul Gallo
A master draper and patternmaker with more than three decades of experience in San Francisco. He co-leads garment development, designer mentorship, and sustainability — ensuring couture pieces uphold both artistic and ethical standards.
Courtney Muro
A content strategist who launched Adidas' performance marketing on TikTok and has led community engagement for networks of 30,000+. She directs social media production, content strategy, and digital engagement for SASSI.
Theresa Von Dohlen
An exhibitions professional at the Walt Disney Family Museum with a Master's in Museum Studies. She leads inter-organizational communications and develops collaborations with cultural institutions to expand LGBTQ+ representation in the arts.
San Francisco-based artists, event organizers, and philanthropy aficionados who support SASSI in an advisory capacity, offering mentorship when needed.
Colleen Quen
A renowned couture designer with over three decades of experience locally and internationally, with a background in museum commissions and ballet costumes. She brings a deep understanding of couture as cultural expression.
Adriana Roberts
A nightlife and event producer best known as the creator of Bootie Mashup, an international music and nightlife brand. With 20+ years in event production and creative direction, she advises on large-scale public events.
Nicole Lavay
A cultural coordinator at Villa Albertine with a background in museum work, queer archives, and fine arts installation. With experience in grant writing and arts programming, she supports SASSI's philanthropic outreach.