From b'nai mitzvah and weddings to symposiums and conferences, our Private Events staff is always very busy here at the Skirball Cultural Center. One of the key leaders in navigating all of the moving pieces is none other than our next Skirballer Spotlight, Darrel De Vera. Darrel has been with us for twenty-three years and currently serves as our Director of Private Event Sales.

Q: Tell us about a past or present exhibition that you enjoyed and why.

A: Years ago, I had the chance to experience the Houdini: Art and Magic exhibition, and it really stuck with me. As a kid who once dreamed of becoming a magician, it felt especially meaningful to see that sense of wonder and illusion brought to life.

Q: Describe a Skirball event you had the opportunity to attend. What made it special for you?

A: Working in the private events department at Skirball, I've had the opportunity to see many unique events. One that comes to mind is a b'not mitzvah that happened on Taper Courtyard. They had a close-to-life-sized faux Ferris wheel, the USC marching band, and an amazing drone show above our Santa Monica mountains.

Q: What's one activity you prioritize outside of the Skirball? How does it interact with the work you do here?

A: As I’ve gotten older, prioritizing my health has become more important to me. I’ve started running a few times a week, which has been beneficial in very practical ways—especially on event days, when I can log anywhere from 10,000 to 25,000 steps moving between spaces without getting easily fatigued.

Q: Tell us about a coworker who has gone above and beyond to represent the Skirball in their work.

A: I don’t have a single coworker in mind, but rather an entire department that consistently goes above and beyond: our kitchen team. They are incredibly dedicated, resilient, and detail oriented, preparing and serving meals for roughly 80,000 guests each year across more than 300 events, all while maintaining high standards of quality, hospitality, and teamwork that truly represent the Skirball at its best.

Q: What are you looking forward to learning more about yourself in the following year?

A: In the coming year, I’m looking forward to learning more about my strengths in sales and networking—specifically how I can better build relationships and elevate the Skirball’s presence in the broader events community. On a personal level, I want to continue developing my ability to listen more intentionally and practice patience, both of which I know will make me a stronger collaborator and leader.

Our institution is more than just a workplace—it's a community where each team member plays a vital role in bringing the Skirball's mission and values to life, and creating memorable experiences for all who walk through our doors. As a loving tribute to our original benefactors, Jack and Audrey Skirball, and because of the Skirballs' dedication to education and cultural exchange, we proudly call ourselves "Skirballers."

We regularly spotlight one of these Skirballers, showcasing their unique talents, passions, and contributions to our community. Through these introductions, we invite you to get to know the people who make working here truly something special.