Governance
The Mimesis Institute is governed by a Board of Directors responsible for fiduciary oversight, strategic direction, and institutional integrity. The Board ensures that all activities advance the organization’s charitable mission and comply with applicable legal and ethical standards.
The Board appoints and oversees the Executive Director, approves compensation in accordance with conflict-of-interest safeguards, and retains authority over major financial and strategic decisions.
The Institute does not have voting members; fiduciary authority resides with the Board of Directors.
Board of Directors
Jove Spucchi
Jove leads the Institute’s strategic direction and day-to-day operations. With a background spanning technology, research, and interdisciplinary creative practice, they guide program development, institutional partnerships, and long-term governance strategy. As President, they preside over Board meetings and ensure implementation of Board-approved initiatives.
Layna Smith
Layna brings experience from high-growth startups, where she focused on customer experience, data privacy, and operational systems. She has led compliance initiatives and cross-functional governance projects, including work supporting public-sector organizations. As Secretary, she maintains corporate records, meeting minutes, and procedural integrity to ensure strong institutional accountability.
Matthew Coleman
Matthew is a producer and cultural strategist whose professional experience spans major technology platforms and leading art institutions. His work includes time at Instagram and collaborations with prominent museums, alongside graduate study in modern and contemporary art history. As Treasurer, he oversees financial reporting and supports responsible fiscal stewardship.
Board Governance Summary — 2026 Organizational Meeting
On February 20, 2026, the Board of Directors of The Mimesis Institute, a Utah nonprofit corporation, convened its organizational meeting.
The Board:
- Adopted the Corporation’s Bylaws.
- Adopted a Conflict of Interest and Recusal Policy.
- Confirmed the mission and initial programmatic priorities of the Institute.
- Authorized the opening of a bank account and established financial controls.
- Authorized the officers to pursue grants and accept contributions consistent with the Corporation’s mission.
- Set the fiscal year to end on December 31.
The Board meets at least quarterly and maintains formal minutes of all meetings, which are maintained in the corporate records.
Governance Commitments
The Mimesis Institute operates in accordance with:
- Adopted Bylaws
- Conflict of Interest and Recusal Policy
- Financial controls and internal accounting procedures
- Federal requirements under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
The Board meets at least quarterly and maintains formal records of all actions taken.
Transparency and Accountability
The Mimesis Institute is committed to responsible stewardship of charitable resources. The organization maintains complete financial records, conducts regular Board oversight, and documents all material decisions in formal minutes.
Upon receipt of federal tax-exempt recognition, annual IRS Form 990 filings will be made publicly available in accordance with federal requirements. The Institute strives to operate with clarity, ethical governance, and public accountability.