Mark spent over 40 years as a mental health professional, leading nonprofits that offered therapy for all ages. He led the development of a trauma treatment program for children that included a strong art therapy component. He became an oil painter in 2001, and has since garnered both local and statewide recognition as an artist and art instructor. Art-making was an important part of his own self-care, creating a place where he found peace, perspective and joy.

Cindy’s background includes over a decade as an Account Executive with nationally known companies, managing over 13 million dollars in sales across the mid-eastern United States. Additionally, Cindy has managed the Paullin Law Firm, PC for 11 years. She now uses her leadership and business management experience to implement the vision of Art for the Journey. She has also long been a commissioned artist in a variety of media. Her broad experience serving in the community, along with her embracing love for people, has shaped the culture of AFJ from its inception.

Jamie brings expertise as a former elementary educator, engaged volunteer, and commissioning artist. Her art portfolio includes interior design, decorative painting, ceramics, acrylics, and oils. Her passion to nurture the potential in others inspired our inaugural prison program. She delivers oversight for the now versatile programming, overcoming logistical obstacles and fostering relationships where it counts the most.

Melba has served as Executive Director for homeless programs and on nonprofit boards for over 20 years. She was involved with the Virginia Federation of Women’s Clubs for 19 years and still advocates for those who face poverty and life challenges. Her commitment to helping people overcome barriers led her to connect the mission of Art for the Journey with the wide network of caring community members, government, and faith-based organizations. Her true belief is that there is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer.

Stephanie Shanks is a Richmond, VA native and holds a BA in Painting. Her background includes K-12 art education, scenic design, event planning, and program administration for both local and national nonprofits. As an artist, educator, and certified OMA Facilitator, Stephanie's focus has always been fostering intergenerational community through the fine arts. She believes art, at its best, is a powerful equalizer and that everyone deserves a chance to create, connect and grow.

For over ten years, Lauren has taught visual and performing arts to learners of all ages, in classrooms, museums, and non-profit settings around the world. A passionate advocate for arts integration and STEAM in K-12 learning, Lauren holds a Master’s in Arts in Education from Harvard University and was the inaugural Art Educator Fellow at the innovative Northstar School in Rajkot, India. With The Creative Corner, Lauren works to provide engaging, inspiring, and educational content to students and teachers from fourth grade through high school. The 25-minute program, which airs weekly on VPM Plus, is the 2021 honoree for the Central Virginia Dominion Energy ArtStars Award.

Nancy brings a wide range of experience in both corporate and non-profit organizations. She has a background as a Manager of Corporate Communications for a systems integration company, an administrator for a non-profit, substance abuse rehabilitation center for teenagers, a mediator in the Albany, New York court system, a volunteer director, and coordinator of a corporate partnership that provided life skills training and job preparation for residents in a homeless shelter. Nancy volunteered for many years in several of our programs before joining the staff of Art for the Journey. She finds great joy from engaging with people to encourage healing through her love of art.