Meet The Team

Dedication. Expertise. Passion.

At Artful Healing, we’re a passionate group of artists, students, and helpers who believe in the power of creativity to heal. Together, we bring art into the lives of seniors and underserved communities—one brushstroke, song, and smile at a time.

Celeste Palacio

I'm Celeste Palacio, President and Founder of Artful Healing. I’m a student at TMI Episcopal in San Antonio, with roots in Medellín, Colombia. Through Artful Healing, I combine my love for art and interest in medicine to support those affected by dementia. I believe in the power of art to heal and uplift. Thank you for being here—let’s keep growing and learning from the wisdom of our elderly friends!

Maria Villarreal

I'm Maria Paula Villarreal Botello, Antonian College Prep Co-Leader of Artful Healing. Originally from Mexico, I’m a student at Antonian College Prep in San Antonio. I’ve always felt a special connection with the elderly, and I’m passionate about using art to help dementia patients reconnect with their emotions and memories.

Allan Jauregui

I’m Allan Jauregui, student at TMI Episcopal and Chief Financial Officer of Artful Healing. I’m honored to support a mission that uses art to bring comfort and joy to elders living with dementia. As CFO, I focus on budgeting, funding, and keeping our team organized so we can keep making an impact. I’m still learning, but fully committed to this work and our community.

Sofia Navarro and Kailee Catelotti

We’re Kailee Catelotti and Sofia Navarro, freshmen at Saint Mary’s Hall and proud leaders of Artful Healing at SMH. We're excited to bring joy, creativity, and awareness about dementia to our community through art. We believe in making a difference—one session at a time!

Valeria Ayarzagoitia

I’m Valeria Ayarzagoitia, TMI Episcopal Co-Leader of Artful Healing. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, I’m a student at TMI Episcopal in San Antonio. Art has always been my passion, and I believe in its power to heal. Through Artful Healing, I’m proud to support those with dementia and raise awareness in our community. Let’s keep working together to make a positive impact!

Shriya Mudunuri

I’m Shriya, a sophomore and Co-Leader at Health Careers High School for Artful Healing. I’m grateful for the chance to bring joy and comfort to dementia and Alzheimer’s patients through art and music. I’ve always valued connecting with others, and I admire the wisdom our elderly share. Through our sessions, I hope to help patients express their creativity and memories while feeling supported and loved.

Camila Gonzalez

I’m Camila, Co-Leader of the Cornerstone Christian Schools chapter. Growing up around assisted living and hospice care, I’ve seen how powerful art can be for those struggling with dementia. Nearly 1 in 10 Americans over 65 face this challenge, and I’m passionate about making a difference. I’m honored to join this team and excited for the impact we’ll create together.

Carolina Sanchez

I'm Carolina, the Co-Leader at Ronald Reagan High school. As a musician who has played the piano, flute, and violin for nearly six years, I’ve seen the impact music and art can have on people’s lives. I’m excited to bring those experiences to individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s through Artful Healing and help create meaningful moments together.

Leilah Villarreal

My name is Leilah Villarreal, and I can’t wait to get IWHS involved and help grow our chapter. One of my favorite parts of Artful Healing is spending time with our community. We strive to bring a little extra joy to their day by being present with them! During our sessions, talking with them reminds me how much guidance, kindness, and life experience they have to share. Through art and music therapy, stress is lowered and they can express themselves through a beat and rhythms, or paint and a brush!