About Us
Welcome to QUED-UP, where creativity meets innovation! We are dedicated to inspiring and educating the next generation of artists, engineers, and innovators through engaging and accessible STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) programs.
Our Mission
At QUED-UP, our mission is to empower young minds with the tools and knowledge they need to explore their creative potential and thrive in an ever-evolving world. We believe that by combining the arts with STEAM education, we can foster a well-rounded learning experience that promotes critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
What We Offer
Interactive Workshops: Hands-on activities that bring STEAM subjects to life, making learning both fun and educational.
Classes and Courses: Comprehensive programs designed to delve deeper into various STEAM topics, suitable for all age groups.
In-Person and Online Sessions: Whether it's at your facility or through our developing online platform, we provide flexible learning options to reach students everywhere.
Customized Programs: Tailored sessions that meet the unique needs and interests of your group, ensuring a personalized and impactful experience.
Our Story
Founded by Quittman Farmer, QUED Animations is proud to be the only Black-owned Animation/Virtual Reality Studio in the Midwest. Our journey began with a passion for animation and a vision to make STEAM education accessible to all children. Over the years, we've expanded our offerings to include a wide range of educational programs and have impacted countless young minds along the way.
Our Vision
We envision a world where every child has the opportunity to explore their creative potential, regardless of their background or location. By developing an online platform, we aim to break down barriers to education and provide resources that inspire and empower students globally.
Join Us
Whether you're a parent, educator, or organization, we invite you to join us in our mission. Together, we can nurture the next generation of thinkers, creators, and leaders.
Thank you for being a part of the QUED-UP community. Let’s create, innovate, and inspire!
Meet the Team & Board
Quittman Farmer
Executive Director
Quittman Farmer is a dedicated and passionate designer whose love for art and design has flourished since childhood. Known affectionately as "Q" by colleagues and clients, he is a lifelong student of the arts. Q continuously hones his craft, constantly expanding his understanding and skills to achieve excellence in his field.
Kyle Rickards
Operations Director
As the Operations Director at QUED-UP, Kyle Rickards oversees daily operations, ensuring the organization runs smoothly and efficiently. Kyle plays a vital role in supporting our mission and goals, contributing to the overall success and impact of our programs.
Shamika Brown
Development Director
Shamika Brown, holding a master's degree in early childhood education with a specialization in Administrative Management and Leadership, has dedicated several years to the field of early childhood education. Her exceptional contributions have been recognized through her inclusion in the Book of Who's Who and winning the NAEYC Spotlight award.
Brian Whitten
Strategy Director
Brian Whitten serves as the Strategy Director at QUED-UP, bringing a unique perspective with extensive experience in the insurance industry and running a non-profit organization. As Chief Strategy Officer, Brian excels in strategic planning, resource management, and program development. His expertise is instrumental in advancing QUED-UP's mission and ensuring its long-term success.
Rachel Beck
Relations Liaison
Rachel Beck embodies selfless giving and unwavering respect for diversity. As a great ambassador of kindness and a promoter of peace, Rachel consistently brings a high dose of positivity to everyone around her. With her genuine heart, love for helping others, and sharp intellect, Rachel never disappoints. Her dedication and daily efforts make the world a better place, and she is a cherished member of our team.
Keith Coleman
Project Manager
Keith Coleman is driven by a passion for resolving poverty, homelessness, and providing educational resources to the disenfranchised, particularly in Haiti. He thrives on collaborating with other dedicated professionals and global game changers to tackle challenging problems and make a meaningful impact.
Robert Endo
Technology Director
As the Technology Director at QUED-UP, Robert Endo brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in technology strategy and implementation. With extensive experience in the computer software industry, Robert plays a critical role in helping our non-profit leverage technology to improve operations, increase efficiency, and better serve our community.
Contact Us Today for Support
Reach out to us for assistance with hardware, software, education, and resources for artists and creatives in 2D, 3D, animation, game design, and STEM.
Support
872-212.0477
info@qued-up.org