At the Workhouse Arts Center, our team is dedicated to inspiring creativity, fostering community, and preserving the rich history of our campus. From arts education and exhibitions to performance programs and community initiatives, each staff member plays a vital role in bringing our mission to life. Meet the passionate individuals who work tirelessly to support artists, engage audiences, and make the Workhouse a dynamic hub for the arts.

Meet the Team Behind
the Workhouse Arts Center

  • LinkedIn
    Email

    Keith Gordon joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in July of 2024. As President and CEO, Keith’s responsibilities include establishing the short and long-term vision for the Workhouse Arts Center, creating and implementing the organization’s strategic plan, overseeing all day-to-day business operations, facilitating the company's culture, collaborating with the WAF Board of Directors, and managing its strategic partnership with the County of Fairfax.

    Prior to joining the Workhouse Arts Foundation, Keith served as President and CEO of Fight For Children (FFC), an entrepreneurial organization at the intersection of private enterprise, nonprofit, and the public sector, providing access to opportunities for underserved children throughout the DC region. In this role, he oversaw all operations, including strategic planning, Board management, financial planning and investments, programming, development, marketing, communications, human resources, and the organization’s annual fundraising gala.

    During his nine years with the organization, Keith led the effort to revitalize FFC’s role as a change agent within the region’s philanthropic community. Under his leadership, the organization doubled in size and achieved record revenuein each of his first three years. In 2018, he initiated a mission transition, which included adopting a new mission and evolving beyond the organization’s 30-year annual fundraising gala (Fight Night) in 2019.

    Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, he led FFC’s efforts to aid DC’s recovery, including financial support for local youth-serving nonprofits and addressing the digital divide among students in low-income communities. He established a new vision, a new brand identity, and launched new initiatives, including the Fight For Children Youth Development Institute, the Fight For Children Sports Medicine Center, and Fight For Children Honors. In June of 2022, he was selected to join the Today Show’s Al Roker at the Social Innovation Summit in Washington, DC, where he was a featured panelist on effective and compelling storytelling for brands.

    Before joining FFC, Keith served as President of National Football League Players Incorporated, where he transformed an $85M subsidiary of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) into an innovative, public-facing, and in-demand B2B property, with annual revenue exceeding $150M. Previously, he served as the Director of Lavidge Sports Marketing, a boutique advertising agency in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he launched a sports division with clients including the Phoenix Suns, Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Mercury, World Golf Championships, and KTAR 620AM Sports. Earlier in his career, he served as the Director of Business Development for the National Basketball Association (NBA), with roles in the Team Marketing & Business Operations (TMBO) and Global Merchandising Groups.

    With more than 15 years of C-suite leadership experience, Keith has successfully built, developed, re-imagined, re-energized, and led teams through organizational change. He prides himself on being creative, resourceful, and versatile, with a strong sense of social responsibility and an appetite for helping individuals and organizations achieve their full potential. He’s been described by colleagues as a creative, fun, innovative, and collaborative leaderwho enjoys mentoring and empowering individuals to think creatively, tackle complex business issues, and achieve their best.

    Keith earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from Arizona State University, where he served as Captain of the Model United Nations team. His passion for community impact is reflected in various service roles, including Vice Chair of OSSE’s Community Schools Advisory Committee, Raise DC’s Leadership Council, the Artists & Athletes Alliance Advisory Board, and as Chairman of the Washington DC Chapter of YPO.

    Keith resides in Northern Virginia with his wife Mary and their two children, Matthew and Mia. When not in the office or boardroom, he can be found coaching on the sidelines or behind the microphone at local sporting events and school fundraisers. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling with his family, outdoor adventures, seasonal sports, and learning new songs to play on the guitar.

  • LinkedIn
    Email

    Sharon Arndt joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in [Month, Year] as the Executive Assistant, where she supports colleagues with day-to-day operations and contributes to special projects that advance the organization’s mission. Sharon brings a wealth of experience in community engagement, organizational leadership, and project management to her role at the Workhouse Arts Center. 

    Prior to joining the Workhouse, Sharon enjoyed a distinguished career in public health with Fairfax County Government, where she served as Director of Community Health Development. In this role, she collaborated with local government partners, elected officials, nonprofits, and community-based organizations to advance well-being and promote health equity across the region. Sharon’s dedication and impact were recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, who honored her with the 2022 A. Heath Onthank Award for merit—the County’s highest employee recognition. 

    Sharon holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Richmond and earned master's degrees from both George Washington University and George Mason University. She is also a 2018 graduate of the Leadership Fairfax Institute, a program dedicated to fostering community leaders who drive meaningful change. 

    Passionate about the local community and its artistic legacy, Sharon brings her commitment to stewardship of local assets to the Workhouse Arts Center. 

    Outside of Work, Sharon loves spending time with her large family and many friends, traveling to new destinations, and creating stained glass art. With the Workhouse’s prime location in Fairfax, it’s not unusual for Sharon to arrive at her desk after a sunrise row on the Occoquan River, a perfect start to a productive day. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email

    Originally from Germany, Nancy has called Virginia home for the past eight years. She joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in December 2025 as the Director of Marketing and Communications, where she oversees the organization’s website, marketing strategies, brand development, public relations, and community engagement initiatives. Her work ensures WAF’s mission reaches diverse audiences and fosters meaningful connections.

    With over 15 years of experience in web design, digital marketing, SEO, e-commerce, and communications, Nancy has a proven ability to drive business growth by 50% through strategic marketing initiatives. Her career spans leadership roles in both B2B and B2C industries, where she has successfully launched loyalty programs, executed targeted social media strategies, and developed innovative digital initiatives to enhance customer engagement and revenue.

    Nancy earned an international Bachelor’s degree in Web Design, providing the foundation for her dynamic and multifaceted career in marketing and communications.

    Passionate about creativity, business growth, and mental health advocacy, Nancy finds inspiration in both nature and the arts. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, photography, fashion, body combat workouts, and exploring innovative ways to bring positive change to her community.

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Katie Crooks joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in October 2022 as the Director of Museum and Visitor Experience. In this role, Katie leads both the Visual Arts and Visitor Experience teams, ensuring the Workhouse Arts Center provides a welcoming, engaging environment where visitors can connect with art, history, and creativity. She also serves as a steward of the site’s rich history, integrating its unique past into all aspects of programming and campus experiences. 

    With nearly 20 years of experience in the museum field, both in the U.S. and abroad, Katie brings a global perspective and deep expertise to her role. Her passion lies in connecting people to art and history, finding ways to align visitors' interests with the Workhouse’s offerings to create meaningful and memorable experiences. 

    Katie earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art from Cornell College and a Master of Arts in Art History with a focus on museum application from The George Washington University. Her academic and professional background reflects a lifelong dedication to fostering connections between communities and cultural institutions. 

    Outside of Work, Katie enjoys spending time with her husband and young son at their home in Annandale, Virginia. She can often be found experimenting in her kitchen or curled up with a good book on her deck, savoring a quiet moment of creativity and reflection. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email

    Kim Simons joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in September 2024 as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO). In this role, Kim oversees the organization’s financial operations, human resources, IT, and office administration, ensuring the foundation’s systems and resources operate efficiently to support its mission. 

    With a career spanning over 30 years, Kim brings extensive expertise in finance, financial systems, human resources, IT, and organizational administration. She has a proven track record of success, particularly in start-ups and turning around troubled for-profit and nonprofit organizations, where she has applied her strategic vision and leadership to drive stability and growth. 

    Kim earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Virginia Tech, providing her with a strong foundation for her multifaceted career. 

    A passionate conservationist, Kim has a deep love for all furry and feathery things. She resides in Bristow, Virginia, with her husband, two sons, a Shiba Inu, a kitten, and a rabbit. Her connection to nature is further reflected in her admiration for the Peregrine Falcon, her favorite raptor, which she often spots in the woods near her home. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Bryan Lane joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in April 2024 as the Director of Events, Rentals, and Facilities. In this role, Bryan oversees the seamless operation of our Events and Rentals team, ensuring exceptional service and care for all customers, partners, and visitors. Additionally, he leads the Facilities team, managing the buildings and grounds across our expansive 55-acre campus to maintain a safe, welcoming environment for staff, artists, and guests. 

    Prior to joining the Workhouse Arts Foundation, Bryan served in the United States Marine Corps directly after high school, an experience that allowed him to travel the world and develop a strong sense of discipline and leadership. He later attended Westmar College in LeMars, Iowa, and has since accrued 20+ years of experience in the meeting and hospitality industry. Throughout his career, Bryan has been known for his ability to build strong, trusting relationships and his passion for connecting with people to learn their “life stories.” 

    Outside of Work, Bryan enjoys spending quality time with his wife and family, playing golf, fishing, and, to the surprise of many, tackling yardwork—a hobby he finds both productive and rewarding. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Ian Schmidt joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in January 2024 as the Director of the Glass and Ceramics Departments. Leading one of the region’s largest nonprofit centers for glass and ceramic arts, Ian oversees a growing range of programs designed to position the Workhouse as a leading incubator for the arts, fostering creativity, skill-building, and community engagement. 

    With over 20 years of experience in the glass and ceramics industry, Ian brings unparalleled expertise and a deep understanding of craft. He holds two terminal degrees in glass and ceramic arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology and an M.F.A. from Temple University, Tyler School of Art, where his thesis focused on 3D computer-aided design in ceramic arts. 

    As a second-generation glassblower trained in the Venetian tradition, Ian’s roots in the studio glass movement run deep. His father was one of the pioneers of the studio glass arts movement in the 1960s, and his mother managed a prominent glass production business in Toledo, Ohio—the birthplace of American studio glass. 

    Throughout his career, Ian has held numerous leadership and technical roles, including serving as a team leader for the Corning Museum of Glass, where he worked on Celebrity Cruise ships globally, delivering live glassblowing demonstrations to diverse audiences. As a product development specialist for a premier furniture and lighting company in Philadelphia, Ian spearheaded the construction of a 5,000-square-foot glassmaking facility and successfully facilitated the launch of multiple products to market. Most recently, in 2021, Ian served as the lead technician for the University of Wisconsin’s glass and ceramic programs, where he also implemented cutting-edge maker spaces featuring3D printing and CNC machine shops

    Ian’s work has been exhibited in private galleries along the East Coast, reflecting his commitment to craft and quality. His dedication to excellence informs his passion for creating above-par educational experiences in the classroom, where students are empowered to develop their skills and realize their artistic visions

    At the Workhouse Arts Center, Ian brings a vision of growth—establishing a space where artists of all levels can hone their craft, push creative boundaries, and contribute to a thriving artistic community. 

  • Email


    Eileen Sheridan joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in September 2021 as the Special Assistant to the President/CEO and Board of Directors. In this role, Eileen provides critical support for Board meetings and ensures the smooth operation of executive-level initiatives. With nearly 40 years of experience in executive positions within the defense contracting industry, Eileen brings a wealth of knowledge, organizational expertise, and professionalism to the Workhouse team. 

    Eileen earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from James Madison University. Her versatility and dedication extend beyond her primary role, as she often assists across a variety of departments, supporting the Workhouse’s mission to inspire and engage the community through the arts. 

    After her retirement, Eileen’s connection to the Workhouse Arts Center deepened when she transitioned from being a longtime supporter—shopping for unique gifts of art for family and friends—to becoming an integral part of the organization. 

    Outside of Work, Eileen enjoys gardening and spending time outdoors. Her commitment to excellence and passion for the arts make her a valued member of the Workhouse team. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Karen Akers joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in January 2024 as the Director of Education. In this role, Karen oversees the development and implementation of a dynamic arts education program, which includes coordinating more than 300 classes annually and leading the impactful Workhouse Military Arts Initiative (WMAI). Her thoughtful planning and leadership ensure that Workhouse Arts Center’s educational offerings inspire creativity and serve a diverse community of learners. 

    Prior to joining the Workhouse, Karen held administrative leadership roles in both higher education and the senior living industry, with positions at The George Washington University, Virginia Tech, and the Brookings Institution. This diverse experience has equipped her with the skills to lead complex programs, foster collaboration, and create meaningful learning opportunities. 

    Karen holds a Bachelor of Arts from Miami University and both a Master’s and Education Specialist (EdS) degree from George Washington University, reflecting her strong academic foundation and commitment to lifelong learning. 

    Karen lives in Vienna, Virginia, with her husband and enjoys having her two adult daughters close by. Outside of work, her passions include singing with the Vienna Choral Society, exploring global music, and cooking for the people she loves—a reflection of her joy in bringing people together through creativity and connection. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    A New Jersey native, Katie has lived in Northern VA for almost 15 years, after graduating from Montclair State University with a B.A. in Foreign Language Translation.  

    Katie got her start in fundraising while in college, participating in endurance races and raising over $30,000 for causes to which she had a personal connection. She expanded on her fundraising experience while working for the Association of Legal Administrators in Washington, DC and managed a robust membership and partnership program. Katie was then hired to help run operations and special projects for the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial Fund. Over five years, Katie served on RFP committees during the beginning stages of the 9/11 Pentagon Memorial Visitor Education Center project, identifying prospective donors, and managing the Memorial’s Docent Program.  

    Katie has been with epiphany productions, inc. as the Vice President of Development since 2018, and works with numerous non-profits (both national and regional) helping them reach and exceed their funding goals, create strategic fundraising plans ranging from grassroots efforts to large-scale events, and research and solicit major donor procurement. Katie enjoys consulting with clients on how to better their organizations through management planning, fundraising strategy, and strategic partnerships.  

    Katie is passionate about the power of sports, mental health, youth development, and a strong advocate for women’s sports. In her free time, Katie is a former competitive triathlete and currently a world-ranked Strongwoman, having competed at both The Arnold Classic and Official Strongman Games.   

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Ranjit Sidhu joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in March 2024 as the Director of Camps & Group Programs, bringing a unique blend of creative vision and business expertise to her role. Ranjit oversees a diverse array of programs, including team-building workshops, corporate retreats, art classes, birthday parties, school field trips, and Cub Scout events. Additionally, she plays a key role in managing the popular Spring and Summer Camps, ensuring that young artists have enriching and inspiring experiences

    Ranjit holds a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Ceramic and Graphic Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Sculpture, providing her with a profound understanding of the artistic process. Complementing her artistic credentials, she also holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification and has over 12 years of experience managing a human resources business and leading teams. Her rare combination of creative and operational expertise enables her to design programs that cultivate artistic expression while fostering teamwork and personal development

    Outside of work, Ranjit is an avid art enthusiast who enjoys traveling, biking, and spending time outdoors. Her dedication to creativity, leadership skills, and passion for fostering artistic growth make her an invaluable member of the Workhouse team

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Sarah Berry joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in December 2023 as the Exhibitions Manager. In this role, Sarah curates a dynamic and diverse slate of exhibitions, showcasing local, national, and international artists in the three fine arts galleries located in Building W-16. She also curates' exhibitions for the Workhouse Theater lobby featuring Workhouse Studio Artists and oversees off-site exhibitions and artwork loans, ensuring the Workhouse’s artistic impact reaches beyond campus walls. 

    With over 20 years of experience as an independent curator and arts organization professional, Sarah has been dedicated to ensuring that art belongs everywhere, whether in formal arts settings or unexpected places. Her work is driven by a passion for making art accessible and relevant to the broader community. 

    Sarah holds an MS in Arts Administration from Boston University and a BA in Psychology with a minor in Art & Visual Technology from George Mason University. Her commitment to education extends to her role as a guest lecturer at George Mason University, where she shares insights on curatorial practices and the importance of art in non-traditional and community settings with students in Art History, African American Studies, and Arts Administration programs. 

    Sarah’s leadership in the arts community includes her work with Arts Fairfax, where she served on the Fairfax County Master Arts Plan Task Force for Public Art and the Artist Advisory Group for the Fairfax Regional Artist Survey. As Arts Fairfax's Interim Advocacy Coordinator, Sarah successfully secured significant increases in arts funding at both the County and State levels—a testament to her dedication to arts advocacy. 

    As an artist herself, Sarah creates assemblage artworks using upcycled, crowd-sourced materials, telling the story of what people make, leave behind, and the environmental impact of human creativity. Her works have been exhibited in solo, and group shows in the U.S. and France, are part of private collections, and have been published by The Smithsonian and The Boston Globe. Sarah is also a public art consultant and a budding mural painter, with several murals currently on view throughout the Greater Washington region

    To learn more about Sarah’s work, visit www.smberry.com

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Ameha Workineh joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in March 2024 as a dedicated Accountant. In this role, Ameha oversees the accuracy and efficiency of Accounts Payable operations, ensuring seamless financial processes that support the foundation’s day-to-day operations. He brings extensive expertise in accounting systems, including QuickBooks and NetSuite, to streamline workflows and maintain financial precision. 

    Prior to joining the Workhouse Arts Foundation, Ameha spent decades honing his skills in the accounting departments of renowned NGOs such as World Vision, FHI, and Project HOPE, where he contributed to the effective financial management of mission-driven organizations. 

    Ameha holds a degree in Accounting from Unity University and is passionate about continued learning and professional development to stay at the forefront of evolving financial practices. 

    Outside of Work, Ameha enjoys swimming and reding books. His attention to detail, reliability, and dedication makes him an invaluable part of the WAF team.  

  • LinkedIn
    Email

    Conor Daugherty joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in February 2024 as the Education Coordinator. In this role, Conor oversees course registration and works closely with instructors to ensure the smooth execution of classes and workshops, creating a seamless and enriching experience for both students and educators. 

    Though new to the nonprofit and arts education sectors, Conor brings a solid foundation in Business Administration from Lebanon Valley College, along with a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Over the past year, he has successfully managed the registration process for 70 to 80 classes per session and ensured the timely updating of courses on the Workhouse website. Conor also contributes significantly to Workhouse events, including coordinating gallery exhibitions that highlight student artwork and celebrate the community’s creativity. 

    In his free time, Conor enjoys watching foreign films and exploring the DMV area. His organizational skills, enthusiasm for the arts, and dedication to delivering exceptional educational experiences make him an invaluable member of the Workhouse team. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email

  • LinkedIn
    Email

    Liz Colandene joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in 2019 as the Manager of Performing Arts. In this role, Liz works closely with the Director of Performing Arts, Joseph Wallen, to produce all stage productions throughout the season and oversee every aspect of live performances across the Workhouse campus. Their organizational expertise and creative vision ensure that every performance meets the highest standards of quality and engagement for audiences. 

    multidisciplinary artist and a proud native of the DMV region, Liz brings a wealth of hands-on experience to their role. Outside of the Workhouse, Liz remains active in the local arts scene, serving as a director, performer, and designer for theaters across the region, further enriching their contributions to the performing arts community. 

    Liz holds a master's degree in arts management from George Mason University, a reflection of their commitment to both the creative and administrative facets of the arts industry. 

    Outside of Work, Liz continues to explore their creative passions and remains deeply connected to the region’s vibrant arts and theater community. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Bweleka Yamikani rejoined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in July 2024 as the Revenue and Payroll Accountant.

    With over 12 years of experience in accounting, Bweleka brings invaluable expertise to Workhouse's finance operations, financial systems, and human resources. Her ability to build meaningful relationships with artists and other stakeholders is a tremendous asset to the organization. As a returning team member, her dedication and passion for Workhouse shine through, exemplifying her commitment to its mission.

    Bweleka holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Southern Oregon University and an MBA in Accounting from Keller Graduate School of Management, equipping her with a strong foundation to excel in her field.

    Outside of work, Bweleka is an avid explorer who loves immersing herself in new cultures and cuisines. She resides in Centerville, Virginia, with her two daughters and her beloved cat, Dog. A Sci-Fi enthusiast at heart, she enjoys delving into the genre's imaginative worlds. However, her greatest passion lies in her work with ultra-poor children and youth in Zambia's Copperbelt Province, where she dedicates her time and energy to creating meaningful change.

    Bweleka’s expertise, compassion, and unwavering commitment make her an indispensable part of the WAF team.

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Jay Loy joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in January 2024 as the Museum Coordinator for the Lucy Burns Museum. In this role, Jay ensures the seamless daily operation of the museum, overseeing the maintenance of the collection, curating thoughtful exhibitions, and engaging with visitors to share the rich and important history housed within the Workhouse Arts Center. 

    With four years of experience in the museum field, Jay has held positions in exhibitions, collections management, and public engagement, bringing a well-rounded skill set and a passion for connecting audiences to history. Their ability to balance behind-the-scenes precision with meaningful visitor experiences helps bring the museum’s stories to life. 

    Jay holds a bachelor's degree in Anthropology from the University of South Carolina and a master's degree in museum studies from George Washington University, further strengthening their expertise in preserving and presenting cultural narratives. 

    Outside of Work, Jay is a dedicated photographer, enjoys playing board games, and loves experimenting in the kitchen with new recipes. Their creativity, enthusiasm, and commitment to historical preservation make them a valued member of the Workhouse team. 

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Kessler joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in January 2025 as the Ceramics Studio Manager. He oversees the daily operations of the studio, managing and organizing the development of the program and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the studio.  

     

    Kessler moved to the US in 2019 to further his education far from his home, the island nation of Samoa. He majored in studio art with an emphasis in Ceramics in Illinois, where he finished his undergraduate and graduate studies in 2023. He moved to northern Virginia later in the same year to begin his career in the arts, where he started teaching ceramics to all ages at a studio in Vienna and managing its operation, and has had the opportunity to showcase his work within deluxe places in the city of Fairfax like Tyson’s Corner and the Mosaic District.  

     

    Apart from creating art and community through clay, Kessler enjoys building relationships with people, going to social events, having major adventures in the outdoors, and has a passion for design, may it be cars, clothes, or ceramic pots. He also loves going to Church and is always fascinated by the realm of the supernatural and its hidden treasures of knowledge.  

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Violetta Nagy joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in November 2024 as the Education Programs Assistant. In this role, Violetta supports the day-to-day operations of the Education Department, managing instructor contracting, class proposals, and scheduling to ensure seamless program delivery. 

    With a strong background in visual arts and arts management, Violetta brings a wealth of organizational skills, research expertise, and effective communication to her position. Prior to transitioning to the Education Department, she spent over a year in Events and Rentals, where her customer service skills and dedication contributed to increased rentals and enhanced visibility for the Workhouse Arts Center. 

    Before joining the Workhouse, Violetta served as the Executive Director of the Vienna Choral Society, where she gained experience in arts leadership, community engagement, and program coordination. 

    Violetta holds a BA in Art and Visual Technology from George Mason University, where she cultivated her passion for connecting diverse audiences to the arts. 

    Outside of Work, Violetta enjoys both creating and experiencing art in its many forms—whether visual, musical, or theatrical. Her enthusiasm for the arts and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable member of the Workhouse team. 

     

  • LinkedIn
    Email


    Wendy Anderson joined the Workhouse Arts Foundation (WAF) in April 2024 as the Coordinator for the Military in the Arts Initiative (WMAI). In this role, Wendy passionately supports the intersection of creativity and service, bringing programs to life that empower and inspire military-connected individuals through artistic expression. 

    As both a military brat and the spouse of a career veteran, Wendy brings a deep personal connection and unique perspective to her role. Her commitment to the program is grounded in her belief that art has the power to heal, communicate complex emotions, and connect individuals in meaningful ways. 

    Wendy’s journey at the Workhouse began in 2009 as a professional self-taught artist, and she continues to maintain both a 2D and 3D studio in Building 10. She is also an instructor in the Workhouse Education Program, where she enjoys helping others discover their creative voice. Wendy believes it is never too late to become something you never thought possible and finds joy in connecting people to their creativity. 

    As an artist, Wendy’s work has evolved from focusing on meditation and healing art to creating pieces that bring beauty into everyday life while inviting participation in the creative process. Her art draws inspiration from the vibrant colors of life’s great experiences, the journeys we take together, and the unexplored paths ahead exploring the boundlessness of human experiences and understanding. 

    Before joining the Workhouse, Wendy gained valuable administrative experience during her four and a half years with Michaels Stores, where she held roles including Event Coordinator, Office Manager, Floral Manager, and Frame Shop Manager. While corporate management wasn’t the right fit, Wendy credits this time for honing skills in organization, event planning, and team coordination, all of which she now applies in her role as WMAI Coordinator. 

    Outside of Work, Wendy continues to create art and share her passion for the healing power of artistic expression. Her dedication to fostering creativity, paired with her personal connection to the military community, makes her a vital and inspiring member of the Workhouse Arts Center team.