Ricky Bamberger

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I joined the guild in January of 2023 and it has steadily become my home away from, almost to the point of a subtle pottery addiction. I have developed a passion for pottery and ceramics at the guild as I have explored various rabbit holes related clay, glazes and a variety of other niche explorations. The environment and community at the guild is truly special, and I have found it to be a rare place where anyone can walk in and be welcomed and feel at home. I was warmly welcomed and always try to follow that example. I am always excited for the ability to support the guild and our community. Initially I volunteered on the volunteer committee, and then started volunteering as a Monitor on Friday Family Fun Nights, continuing to do so, and this past year I was selected serve on the board as the Education chair

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

Professionally, I have management, organizational, tech, and data analytics experience. I have been able to apply these skills this year in various ways while serving on the board; some examples being examples being: transitioning the guild to a google workspace for better communication and organization, as well as building policies and workflows that serve our instructors, programs, and community. It has been rewarding being able to work with the guild and its members as well as being an advocate for our instructors and education programs. I hope to continue supporting the guild in any way I can as we build towards our next step as a community this year!

Cynthia Brown

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

Having served on the board for the past two years, I am eager to continue supporting the Guild during this pivotal transition. With our move to a new building at the end of the summer, continuity and experienced leadership will be essential. My time as an instructor and volunteer has given me a deep appreciation for our community, and I want to ensure we maintain our momentum as we settle into our new home. Entering a third year allows me to help manage this transition effectively and support our members as we adapt to a larger, updated space.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I bring a strong background in studio operations and community coordination to the board. During my previous terms, I served as the Volunteer Chair, where I managed the studio monitors and coordinated the vital volunteer efforts that keep our daily operations running smoothly. This role gave me a direct line of communication with our most active members and a clear understanding of the logistics required to maintain a functional, welcoming studio environment.

As a potter and instructor, I am deeply invested in the hands-on needs of our artists. I plan to use my experience managing the monitor program to help streamline our move and ensure that our volunteer structure remains robust in the new building. My goal is to use my organizational skills to bridge the gap between our current traditions and the expanded opportunities our new space will provide, ensuring the Guild continues to thrive for all its members.

Jeff Cochran

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

Over the past year I have been honored to be on the KC Clay Guild board.

Becoming more involved in the guilds operations and helping to promote events was exactly what i wanted to do. Pottery has given me a strong sense of connection to fellow makers, and i want to continue to share that with others.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I bring experience in videography, photography, and advertising. I hold a photography/film degree from the Kansas City Art Institute, where I first discovered ceramics, and I currently work as a videographer for a local company in KC. I believe my skills in visual storytelling and marketing can help raise the Guild’s profile, document member work and events, and attract new members, students, and supporters.

David Firman

Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I have served on the Board for the past several years as Gallery Director. During that time, I have expanded the number of participating member artists from about 10 to roughly 25, which has helped increase gallery sales and visibility.

I also reworked the gallery’s concept and guidelines. Previously, artists were selected through a jury process. Under the current model, any member in good standing may exhibit work in the gallery with minimal artistic restrictions. I see the Guild’s gallery as an important learning opportunity where members can gain experience exhibiting their work and better understand what is involved in showing in a gallery setting.

In addition, I created a wall dedicated to the Guild’s Teabowl National and recently designed shelving that highlights our Artists in Residence. I have organized several solo exhibitions for the Artists in Residence and introduced events such as the “Kiln God” contest and exhibition.

Looking ahead, I still have many ideas for improving the gallery—making it more engaging for participating members and establishing it as a destination for the broader public.

Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put them to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I earned an M.F.A. in ceramics from Claremont Graduate University in California. While I am a potter at heart, my graduate work focused primarily on slip casting and hand building, working mostly with cone 6 clay and glazes. As an undergraduate, I served as a teaching assistant and later taught adult pottery classes for several years, covering wheel throwing as well as cone 10 and raku firing.

In addition to my experience in ceramics and organizing events, I have worked professionally as a graphic designer for several companies in Kansas City, including Hallmark. These skills have helped me with exhibition design, promotion, and presentation within the gallery.

As mentioned above, I have many ideas for continuing to move the Centered Earth Gallery forward. I would be excited to continue serving as Gallery Director so that I can bring those ideas to fruition.

Thank you for your consideration.

Brook Graham

1) Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I’m grateful for the KC Clay Guild, our classes, and events, and I want to contribute to the clay community! 

2) Describe your skills, experience, and interests, and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I have an MFA in graphic design and a minor in ceramics. I’m an adjunct instructor at the University of Kansas and Product Manager at a tech company. I have been on the board of UXPA KC, volunteered with the KC Clay Guild, and will be a helpful and resourceful board member. 

Kelsie Herron

1) Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I would be honored to continue serving on the KC Clay Guild Board because it’s been rewarding to witness and contribute to the Guild’s growth since I first joined the board in 2019. Over the years, I’ve watched our community flourish—membership grow, events sell out, break sales records, and other exciting new milestones like securing funding for our new space and updated equipment.

With our expansion, I believe we’re just beginning to tap into what’s possible for us. The new space opens the door for even greater accessibility, inclusivity, and impact—both within the Guild and in the broader Kansas City arts community. I’m excited about the opportunity to help shape this next chapter and ensure that KCCG makes art accessible to all that we can.

2) Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I came to KC Clay Guild as a resident artist in the fall of 2017 after earning my BFA from the University of Missouri. At the end of my residency, I joined the Board of Directors and have since served as both Workshops Chair, Publicity Chair and currently as Secretary. Within my board position I have taken part in events and committees such as Raku Night, Teabowl National, Holiday Sale, Spring Sale, and the Strategic Planning Committee.

Through these roles, I’ve enjoyed staying connected to our community- whether that’s attending our events, engaging with members, or helping manage our presence on social media. I also love building and maintaining relationships with artists and organizations across the greater Kansas City arts scene. Through being Secretary this last year, I have had the benefit of learning more about what goes in to sustaining our fundraising goals and about the construction and outfitting of our new space.

I’ve been the Saturday Kids’ Class instructor since 2018, lead our community soda firings, and previously participated in our On The Move program. With a background in both art and service, I’ve developed a passion for community arts and a strong belief that art is for everyone and everyone should have access to it. If re-elected, I hope to continue supporting and growing KC Clay Guild’s mission—helping us build a creative and inclusive space for all. Thank you for your consideration.

Jordan Horn

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

My journey with the KC Clay Guild began in late 2018 when I took my very first beginners pottery class. From that moment, I was fascinated by the transformative and calming powers of clay and by the welcoming, supportive community fostered by the Guild.

This initial spark has only grown into a deep appreciation for the Guild and its role in the Kansas City arts landscape. In 2023, I was thrilled to deepen my involvement by becoming a volunteer monitor. This experience has provided me with valuable insight into the daily operations of the Guild, and I've had the wonderful opportunity to witness firsthand the growth of our community. I've seen individuals come in for the very first time during events like Family Fun Night and then, whether gradually or with great enthusiasm, become regular, engaged members after that initial positive experience. This direct observation of the Guild's impact on individuals and the community has further solidified my commitment to its success.

I am genuinely passionate about the KC Clay Guild's mission and vision – to cultivate a thriving ceramic arts community through education, collaboration, and opportunity. I am eager to continue serving on the board to help the Guild continue to thrive and to ensure that the joy and artistry of working with clay remain accessible to all.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests, and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

My professional background includes extensive experience in marketing, with a particular focus on email marketing strategies. I have a proven track record of developing and implementing successful email campaigns that drive engagement, build community, and distribute information effectively.

Beyond my professional work, I have been a marketing volunteer for Empowering Minds International for the past 10 years. In this role, I have owned and contributed to various aspects of marketing, including managing email communications, building and contributing to website development and maintenance, and providing event support. This volunteer experience has further developed my ability to strategically plan and execute marketing initiatives within a non-profit context, much like the Clay Guild.

I believe my marketing skills and experience will continue to benefit the KC Clay Guild. As a board member, I hope to continue to leverage my email marketing expertise to enhance communication with Guild members, promote workshops and events, attract new subscribers and members, and keep the broader community informed about the Guild's activities and achievements. My passion for the Guild, combined with my marketing experience, has allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the board's efforts in strengthening the Guild's presence, fostering greater participation, and ultimately supporting the continued growth of the Kansas City clay community.

Haley Jester Mott

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

Since I first came to KC Clay Guild, I have watched the studio grow in community, membership, and education. This dedication to growth, while building a ceramic community that meets the needs of its members and staff, makes me want to be more involved in its future. As a Monitor, I have had the opportunity of being the first face a person sees when they come to the studio for the first time. I really enjoy giving tours of the facility and sharing our space and it's wonders with newcomers. I believe serving on the board will give me more opportunities to share that wonder with others. I especially look forward to moving into the new studio location and witnessing what the future holds for the Guild.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

As an active member, Monitor, and student of the Guild for over 3 years, I already feel proud of what the Guild has accomplished in the community and am honored to be a part of it's journey forward to the new location. I started my ceramics path over 30 years ago as a high school and college student. But when I came to the Guild in 2022, I hadn't touched clay in 25 years. It felt like coming home in so many ways. During my clay hiatus, I worked in food and bar service, retail, and lastly 15 years in accounting, 3 of which were for a local non profit. All of these industries have taught me valuable skills in customer service and relations, training, fundraising, accounting, and non profit practices. But I think my role as a mom of three best prepares me for serving on the board. Patience, observation, and listening to many often conflicting opinions will serve me well in this role. If elected to the Board, I would be honored to share my skills and knowledge in service to the Guild.

Nicole Justice

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I am interested in serving on the Pottery Studio Board because of the significant impact the KC Clay Guild has had on my artistic journey and personal growth. Since taking my first class in 2022, I have not only developed my skills in pottery but also found a wonderful community that encourages creativity and collaboration. I want to give back to this inspiring environment by contributing my skills and time to help shape its future. Serving on the board would enable me to advocate for initiatives that enhance the studio’s offerings, promote community engagement, and ensure that it remains a welcoming space for people from diverse backgrounds and artists of all skill levels.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

As a graphic designer, UX designer, and frontend software engineer, I bring a diverse skillset that could greatly benefit the KC Clay Guild. My background in graphic design would allow me to contribute to the studio’s branding and marketing efforts, helping to effectively communicate the KC Clay Guild’s mission and attract new members. I can help create visually appealing materials for events, workshops, and social media campaigns that resonate with our audience.

I am passionate about encouraging inclusive and engaging environments, particularly for the communities I belong to as a black queer woman, and I would advocate for initiatives that ensure the studio is accessible to all.

Additionally, my frontend software engineering skills can be utilized to develop and maintain digital tools that support our community. I am excited about the possibility of leveraging technology to enhance our community’s experience.

Melissa May

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I first joined KC Clay Guild in 2016 to take a wheel-throwing class and quickly found much more than a new hobby. The Guild welcomed me into a supportive, generous community where learning and experimentation are encouraged. Since then, I’ve continued as a hobby potter and have developed a deep appreciation for how transformative access to the arts can be.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

Professionally, I work as a Project/Construction Manager and have also run a small property management and construction business. My experience includes project planning, budgeting and financial oversight, contractor coordination, and digital marketing. I’m highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with budgets and long-term planning. Just as importantly, I value collaboration—I believe good leadership starts with listening carefully, understanding shared goals, and building practical plans that move everyone forward.

I’ve been serving on the KC Clay Guild Board as Treasurer since 2024 and been volunteering as Construction Coordinator to oversee the renovation of our New Building. As a Board Member, I bring both my professional skill set and my genuine gratitude for what the Guild has given me. I’ve enjoyed using my financial and operational experience to help ensure strong systems, thoughtful growth, and long-term sustainability.

Laura Tyler Strawn

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I began my ceramics journey at the KC Clay Guild in 2016 and quickly fell in love with clay and the KC Clay Guild’s community. In 2017 I started serving on the board and since then have had the opportunity to serve as workshop chair, secretary, and vice president. The Clay Guild is a very unique and special studio and the Clay Guild’s community has been very important to me over the past 10 years. I feel strongly connected to the KC Clay Guild’s mission to allow ceramic arts to be more accessible to the Kansas City community. I am so proud that the Clay Guild is a welcoming, positive community for anyone to be able to create art. I think we are a huge asset to the Kansas City art community. Over the last few years, I have enjoyed being a part of process as we brain storm, search, and work towards our new building to expand ceramic arts in Kansas City. I am so proud of all the hard work everyone has done. I would like to continue serving on the KC Clay Guild’s board, especially as we transition to our new building.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

My background is in painting and drawing and I went to undergrad and grad school for fine arts. Over the last 15 years I have taught art classes for elementary through college, in addition to teaching classes and private lessons at the Clay Guild. I have worked in a high production ceramic studio and also continue to build on my own art and ceramic practice. Art has always been my biggest passion and has been a very big part of my life since I was a kid.

Professionally, I work in marketing and fundraising for nonprofits and that has been a very educational experience, and has felt very applicable in also serving the Clay Guild. I enjoy helping on the strategic planning committee as we have strategized fundraising goals for purchasing and renovating our new building.

As a KC Clay Guild member and board member, I value creating a kind and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy ceramics. I hope to continue to use my skills as we grow into this next phase of the KC Clay Guild.

Karen Wintergalen

1. Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

Serving on the board of the Kansas City Clay Guild would be a true honor. I have been part of the Guild since 2018 and felt drawn to give back from the very beginning, starting as a monitor. I care deeply about the strength, accessibility, and future of our ceramic community. The Guild fosters meaningful connections among artists and students, and I am inspired by the enthusiasm, curiosity, and passion I see every day within its walls. I am particularly excited by the expansion into a new building that will offer more space and opportunities for learning, collaboration, and creative growth. Board service would allow me to actively support the members at all levels, help broaden community engagement, and contribute to a welcoming and vibrant future for ceramics in the Kansas City area.

2. Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I would add value to the board by helping to guide the guild toward sustainable growth and expanded opportunities without losing the creative, bohemian sense of community that made it feel like home to so many of us

My education is in Aeronautical Engineering, with the most recent 25 years in the Pharmaceutical Industry. Many of those years were in management positions. I am analytical and detailed, and yet also creative and expressive. I am retired by status, but not by ability and love spending the next phase of my life doing something I truly love.

Josh Wood

1) Why are you interested in serving on the KC Clay Guild Board?

I am very passionate about ceramic art and KCCG. I believe in making art available to the greater KC Metro area, and I believe that KCCG provides an excellent venue to do just that. The Guild has provided an excellent opportunity for area artists and I want to do my part to see it continue to thrive, improve, and grow.

Over the past year KCCG has been working on designing and upfitting our new 18,500 square foot building. I have been fortunate enough to be on the Executive Board, and Construction Committee which has helped lead this effort. Currently the building is past the demo stage and construction has begun. What an exciting process to be a part of.

Over the next year we have significant goals to achieve in addition to construction. We need to complete our 2nd phase of fundraising, and complete our move to launch the next chapter of the Guild!

I would also like to be a part of ensuring that our community culture and feel is not lost as we grow, and work to support our current and future members through expansion.

I would be honored to work aside our talented staff and amazing volunteers in seeing these goals fulfilled.

2) Describe your skills, experience, and interests and how you might put it to use as a KC Clay Guild Board Member.

I have been on the Board, as Vice-President for four years, and have been President for the past 8. 12 years on the Board has flown by! I have been working with clay since 1998.

I am a Fleet Manager for a local municipality and in this roll manage employees, develop budgets, seek grants, and speak to professional groups and City Councils. I also have served on a Professional Board for Heartland Emergency Apparatus Technicians as President, Vice President and Director for several years. I believe all of these skills directly translate into helping the Guild continue to succeed.

Over the past year I have been heavily involved in our fundraising efforts and construction planning at the new building, and I would like to be able to provide project continuity with others on the Construction Committee.

I am dedicated to the success of the KC Clay Guild, and would be honored to be selected to serve on the Board again this year!