BOARD & STAFF

OUR STAFF & SUPPORT

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Steve Raider-Ginsburg Executive Director Field Arts Events Hall Port Angeles Washington

“Port Angeles is a magnificent place to experience life. Field Arts & Events Hall will rise up and join the majesty of our surrounds, which include the mountains, the Strait, and the people who live in this hearty community.”

Steven Raider–Ginsburg is honored to serve as the Field Arts & Events Hall as the Executive Director. Joining the team in August of 2021 Steven’s work is focused on closing out a $50 million capital campaign and get ready for the grand opening and beyond.

For over two decades, Steven has provided executive leadership to non-profit arts, higher education, civic and philanthropic organizations. Most recently Steven was the Director of the Autorino Center for the Arts and Humanities at the University of Saint Joseph, a mission-based, world-class performing arts presenter that receives over 30,000 guests a year.

In 2001, Steven co-founded the award-winning original creation theater company, HartBeat Ensemble. Steven was selected by American Theater magazine as one of 25 young theater artists most likely to influence theater in the next 25 years.  He was also recognized as a 2018 State of Connecticut Performing Artist Fellow, and by the Hartford Business Journal on its “40 under 40” list.

Steven is an advisor for the New England Foundation for the Arts National Theater Project and the Ann T. and Edward C. Roberts Foundation. Steven is a member of the 2012 Lincoln Center Directors Lab, holds an M.F.A. in Directing from Boston University, B.A. from Hampshire College, a certificate in Curatorial Practice from Wesleyan University, a certificate in Community and Culture from the Harvard Business School and a certificate in Leadership and Change from the University of Michigan, Ross School of Business. He has served on Hartford’s Commission on Cultural Affairs, is a current Fellow at Yale University’s Pierson College, an alumnus of the National Arts Strategies (NAS) Chief Executive Program, and an accredited Executive Leadership Coach for the arts sector.

Steven began his career at New WORLD Theater under the direction of Roberta Uno at UMass Amherst, and then went on to work with some of the nation’s most illustrious theater-makers, including Anna Deveare Smith, Shakespeare and Company, Augusto Boal, Sojourn Theater, The Civilians, and others.

chris fidler

“No matter where I’ve worked or lived, I’ve always referred to Port Angeles, Washington as home. Now not only have I returned to the place I love but I also get to be a part of the most exciting and important project of my lifetime.”

Prior to joining the project, Chris led strategic planning and business development for the Petrizzo Group, a D.C.-based bipartisan lobbying firm whose Pacific Northwest clients included Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, and Vulcan, Inc.

Chris previously served as Director of Grants and Contracts for the Geneva Foundation overseeing more than 160 military medical research studies conducted at over 40 U.S. Department of Defense sites worldwide. 

From 2010 to 2013, Chris served four tours as Country Director for Clear Path International on behalf of the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement in Afghanistan.

From 1994 to 2004, Chris directed federal government affairs for Airborne Express where he managed all legislative, regulatory, and external affairs pertaining to the domestic, international and airline operations of the company, including its hub in Wilmington, Ohio, the largest privately-owned airport in the world. In the aftermath of 9/11, Chris was named interim director of Airborne’s Aviation Security Department, a role he performed in addition to his government affairs duties for the next two years. In 2003, he successfully directed the nine-month lobbying and public affairs campaign to secure Congressional and regulatory approval of Airborne’s merger with DHL Worldwide.

Prior to joining Airborne Express, Chris worked for three years as Special Assistant for Trade Development with the U.S. Consulate General in Vancouver, B.C. He later worked eight years with the WRG Corporation, a Seattle-based security assistance management company where he ultimately served as Executive Vice President and Managing Director. 

A native of Port Angeles, Chris holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Saint Martin’s College and a Master of Science from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, as well as a Certificate in Languages from the Goethe Institute in Bremen, Germany. Chris was also a member of the adjunct faculty of the University of Washington’s nationally ranked Foster School of Business from 2000 to 2010.  

June Claypool Managing Director

“The generosity and energy the community has shared to bring the vision of Field Hall to life is awe-inspiring. This beautiful gathering place will accelerate regional economic development, foster deep community engagement, and expand access to even greater artistic and cultural vibrancy on the North Olympic Peninsula.”

June Claypool is thrilled to join the Field Arts and Events Hall team as Managing Director. June served as Vice President of Strategy at Peninsula College for the past 3.5 years where she led institutional planning/effectiveness, grants, marketing, community engagement, philanthropy, and non-credit revenue strategy. 

June was the first Cabinet member to receive the Peninsula College Above & Beyond Award (2020). She and her team redesigned and revived the Community Education program, growing it from 0 to 850+ students and from $0 to over $400K in revenue in under two years and during the coronavirus pandemic. June also envisioned and led the implementation of the first annual Fall Spectacular, an immersive community engagement festival attended by over 4,000 community members. She was a Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) Mission Fulfillment Fellow (2020-21). 

June also served as Director of Planning and Resource Development and Director of Grants at Peninsula College going back to 2013. She was the lead in securing over $5 million in competitive federal and foundation grant awards. June facilitated the development of the college’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan and improved the college’s comprehensive system of planning and assessment.  

Prior to working at Peninsula College, June had the privilege of serving at Arizona State University’s Center for Indian Education and on the corporate and foundation relations team at Arizona State University Foundation. Before that, June spent nearly ten years leading county- and state-wide public health advocacy Initiatives at San Diego State University Research Foundation. Her career began as a juvenile justice advocate at a community-based nonprofit in San Diego County.   

June has raised over $60 million throughout her career, primarily through institutional giving. June has also worked as a grant writing and project management consultant for several nonprofits and state agencies in California and Arizona. She has a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University and a Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Writing from California State University, San Marcos.  

June was born and raised in Redondo Beach, California. She fell in love with the Pacific Northwest when she moved to Seattle in 1990. She has lived in Sequim and Port Angeles off and on since 2013 and is delighted to be back on the beautiful North Olympic Peninsula full-time. Actively engaged in theatre for over 20 years, she is excited to return to her roots and is passionate about the power of the arts to transform lives and communities.   

Georgia Meyers Field Arts Events Hall Port Angeles Conferences

“Field Arts & Events Hall was built for the community and by the community.  The events that will take place will function as a “red carpet” to the front door of our town.  It will bring people to our restaurants, hotels, shops, adventure companies, wineries, grocery stores, coffee shops, and so much more.  I truly believe that Field Hall will establish Port Angeles as a destination location for conferences and events, allowing even more visitors to enjoy this beautiful place where the mountains meet the sea.”

Ms. Georgia Meyers relocated to Port Angeles in July 2019, by way of Minneapolis, MN. However, she is not new to the Olympic Peninsula. She had the pleasure of working at Lake Crescent Lodge 26 years ago, where she quickly developed life-long friendships. After moving away, Ms. Meyers continued to visit her friends and the splendor of Olympic National Park 3 times a year. She always knew she would move here permanently, and is thrilled to now be an official resident. Since moving back, Ms. Meyers has become heavily involved in the community, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Port Angeles Community Players.

Ms. Meyers is known industry-wide for her ability to take event venues that are having operational issues and turn them around, through her marketing skills, building venue teams, developing policies and procedures, controlling the operational budget, and executing flawless events. 

In 1996, she was handpicked to research, develop, and mount a full-service banquet facility in the historic Union Depot in St. Paul, MN. She negotiated many high-end contracts and events, including the traveling Titanic Museum Art Show, The Republican National Convention, music videos with artists such as Prince, and commercials with various production companies including Warner Brothers. She served in this role for 20 years, ending her tenure in 2016. She continued to bring results to the table with both the Great Hall in St. Paul, and the award-winning Van Dusen Mansion in Minneapolis. Ms. Meyers was then chosen to be Director of Venue Operations for the exciting $15M Bavaria Downs project. She helped in every step of the project, including the design and project management of the renovation. The project involved renovating existing structures, as well as new build construction, including a state-of-the-art ballroom and an outdoor amphitheater. The incredible team she put together created an award-winning facility before the first event took place, winning “Best New Venue” from Minnesota Bride magazine.

Kayla Oakes Director Education Community Engagement Field Hall Performing Arts Center Port Angeles

“The arts bring people together and provide communities with a sense of identity, belonging and understanding. I want to be a part of that. Port Angeles has been my home for over 18 years and I truly believe that Field Arts & Events Hall is a resource that will offer unique shared opportunities, foster significant economic growth, and develop meaningful inter-community connections that allow us to thrive together. Art is all around us and lives in each one of us in some form. Establishing a home for the artist, the patron, the student, the advocate, the citizen, the experience…well, that is the gift that FAEH is to Port Angeles and the greater North Olympic Peninsula.”

Kayla Oakes joins the FAEH team as the Director of Education & Community Engagement following her tenure as Executive Director of Juan de Fuca Foundation for the Arts. Originally from the Central Coast of California, Kayla relocated to Port Angeles from Boise, ID in 2005 and has made it her home ever since with her husband and two children.

Holding a BFA in Dance from the University of California at Santa Barbara, Kayla maintains a unique artistic lens which compliments over 10 years of administrative leadership experience in the performing arts industry. She’s held artistic and operational positions at various organizations and institutions including Boise Contemporary Theater, Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Ballet Idaho Academy, Boise State University, Eagle Performing Arts Center, Balance Dance Company and The Ballet Workshop. Through these diverse experiences, Kayla has established an extensive background in nonprofit management, program development, curation, event planning, communications, education outreach, community relations, fundraising and grant writing.

Kayla feels privileged to support FAEH as it unfolds and grows to serve the North Olympic Peninsula through arts education and access. Her passions for community, beauty, education and collaboration are strong and active. Kayla continues to teach modern dance technique for The Ballet Workshop and serves on the Board of Directors for both the Juan de Fuca Foundation for the Arts and the Port Angeles Education Foundation.

Kendall Mahoney Technical Director Field Arts Events Hall

“The Field Arts and Events Hall is a place that combines two of my lifelong passions, The Olympic Peninsula and live events. I am excited to be a part of this opportunity, and to watch as the scale of events on the peninsula grows. There is already such a strong grassroots music and art scene on the peninsula, I believe the field hall will bring a lovely addition of resources for long standing local arts organizations as well as inspiration to the community from outside touring acts.”

Kendall Mahoney was born in Tacoma, WA and has lived in Washington most of her life. She received her Bachelor of arts at The Evergreen State College with an emphasis in technical theater and psychology. During her time at Evergreen she was hired by the theater department as head electrician. In this role she redesigned and implemented light plots for five different theatrical spaces, designed lights for all of the major campus productions, as well as trained and managed a crew of student workers.

Her first time living on the Olympic Peninsula was in co-founding the Rainforest Lab intentional community in Clallam County off the Bogachiel River. At the Rainforest lab she worked towards building a community that practiced restorative/transformative justice through various means including a variety of conflict resolution and trauma healing practices. 

She later came back to the Peninsula to work as assistant technical director for the Jazz festival program and a lead technician for The Centrum Foundations summer seasons.  

In her most recent position after the break in live events from the Covid Pandemic, Kendall worked in downtown Tacoma at the beautiful historic theaters, Pantages, Rialto, as well as Theater on the square under Tacoma City Theater leadership. Her position as the swing technician meant that she acted as head lighting, audio, props, and video as needed for various touring shows as well as for productions put on by local resident art organizations. At Tacoma City Theaters she was nominated as the union steward and put her conflict resolution skills to work as an intermediary for IATSE local 15 crew and the management team, addressing concerns from both sides of the table. 

Kendall comes to the Field arts and events hall with a love of the Olympic peninsula as well as the desire to build technical skills within the community through partnering with Peninsula College as an adjunct professor. She has seen and experienced first hand how building trade skills and being an integral part of the arts can boost confidence and give a greater sense of purpose in the lives of those touched by it.

“Field Hall is landmark project for our community. The building is a beautiful anchor to the waterfront. Together with our established local arts scene, the Field Hall Arts and Events organization will create even more opportunities for Port Angeles to be a vibrant arts destination where all are welcome.” 

Kristin Smith is the Box Office and Parton Experience Manager and has worked with and volunteered for several nonprofit organizations in the community. She has a Masters in Public Administration and most recently served as the Board Chair, Interim Operations Director, and Associate Director at Five Acre School. Prior to that, Kristin was a career Park Ranger for the National Park Service and worked to protect National Parks across the U.S. She also has been actively involved youth arts, including spearheading a 2023 trip to Carnegie Hall for the PAHS orchestra, band and choir. 

“My life has been about family and friends.  Socializing around the table with great food and drink is important.  When friends and family come together, hearts and souls become filled, and memories are made. I believe Field Hall offers an amazing space to come together as a community,  and enjoy entertainment,  great food and drinks.” 

Mike has resided in Washington most of his life and moved to the Olympic Peninsula over a year ago.   

His experience in the food and beverage industry includes General Management, Director of Food and Beverage, and Sales Representative for food broadline company.  He is looking forward to bringing in local food and beverage businesses on the Olympic Peninsula by developing a fantastic food and beverage experience for the patrons of Field Hall. 

Family is an important part of his life, and he looks forward to experiencing events at Field Hall with his wife, Gretta, and extended family.   

Amanda Davies Administrative Coordinator Field Arts Events Hall Port Angeles conference and events center

“Field Hall is a project that will bring performing arts to the front and center of the Olympic Peninsula. The hall will give the community an opportunity to see wonderful art and performances that they might not otherwise have the opportunity to see.”

Amanda was born and raised in Chehalis Washington. Her family relocated to Port Angeles in 2004 for her husband’s job. She is a mother to three beautiful girls. Amanda is currently a full time, 4.0 student at Northwest Indian College, she will receive her AA in August of this year and complete her BA in Tribal Governance and Business Management fall of 2024.

Amanda comes to us with a Food and Beverage background. She started in the dish pit as a dishwasher and moved up into management/leadership roles. A few of the establishments Amanda has worked at are, 7 Cedars Casino, The Bushwhacker, and The Clearwater Casino. Amanda is a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt and a Dare to Lead Coordinator (Brene’ Brown – leader of leaders) which has helped her develop successful and profitable F&B departments.

After some time away from the Peninsula to care for her Dad, Amanda returns to Port Angeles to join our team as our Administrative Coordinator. She is looking for a new challenge and is excited about what Field Arts & Events Hall is going to teach her.

Amanda loves to spend time with her family and dogs kayaking, fishing, camping, and spending time at the beach. 

Mercedes Burkavage

“The community of Port Angeles with its location on the water, easy access and view of the mountains and family friendly lifestyle made this a natural choice for us to call home. The downtown renaissance with The Field Arts & Events Hall is an awesome anchor to our harbor  and will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

Mercedes is 7th generation from the island of Aruba. She grew up in South Florida and finished college in Pensylvania. She has lived in Florida, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Nevada before moving to Port Angeles, WA.

In 2012 she became the founder and owner of Big Horn Olive Oil Company and had 3 stores in Nevada.

In 2021 she opened Fog Horn Olive Oil Company in downtown Port Angeles and moved to PA to be near family.

She was a Realtor in both Pennsylvania and Florida. Sales Manager for Radisson Aruba, Sales representative for Aruba Tourism Authority and Manager for Borden Foodservice.

Mercedes enjoys her family and friends. And meeting new people. She loves to create in the kitchen and enjoys sharing her meals.

Photograph of Cheri Jessup

“The arts are a catalyst for bringing people from all walks and experiences together. Knowing that Field Arts & Events Hall will be a cornerstone of revitalization for our community and the Olympic Peninsula is extremely exciting.”

Cheri Jessup has lived in Washington most of her life, and moved to Port Angeles in 2015. She attended Washington State University, where she earned Bachelor of Liberal Arts, with emphasis in Fine Arts, Interior Design, and Communications.

Throughout her working career, she has taken on a variety positions that have challenged her to learn and grow. She has worked in retail, for start-up companies, for nonprofits, and more. In her roll as Office Manager at Field Hall, Cheri brings a wide range of skills and knowledge and is able to assist the team in many areas of the organization.

Cheri considers herself a lifelong learner, whether at work or in her personal life. In her free time, she loves to travel, fish, craft, garden, and build with her hands. A spirit of adventure and creativity runs deep in her family.

“Field Arts & Events Hall is a community project that will have a huge impact on everyone in Clallam County. From the educational programs that will reach our students to the new jobs it will create– this building is just what we need at just the right time.”

Jess Grello was born and raised in rural Maine. She moved to Port Angeles in 2018 with her husband Sam and fell in love with the community. They are currently working on renovating a local church together. 

Jess graduated from St. John’s University in New York City with a B.A. in English and Communications. She began working as a marketing consultant for nonprofit arts organizations and developed a niche in Shakespearean performance. Her original children’s play The Twelve Labors of Hercules, was produced as part of Adirondack Shakespeare Company’s 2012 season. 

She began her career in development at the Brooklyn Academy of Music where she planned fundraising events. While at BAM, Jess met her husband Sam and they later travelled the country together in search of a permanent home. 

Since moving to Port Angeles, Jess has continued to work in nonprofit development, first with Peninsula Behavioral Health and now with Field Arts & Events Hall. During the 2020 pandemic, she took a brief hiatus from Field Hall to manage the One of a Kind Art Gallery in downtown Port Angeles and start Squatchcon Comic & Arts Convention. 

Georgia Johnson Field Arts Events Hall Hospitality Assistant

“I feel honored to be part of such a transformative project for Port Angeles. We have a vibrant community that is constantly coming together to bring new opportunities to the table, and I see so much of that in Field Arts & Events Hall. It will serve as a gathering place for all, an opportunity to foster economic growth, and an invaluable addition to our thriving artist community.”

Georgia Johnson is doing her internship through Field Arts & Events Hall this Spring. Upon completion of this internship, she will be graduating with a degree in Hospitality and Ecotourism from Peninsula College. 

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Georgia has spent her whole life in the vicinity of the performing arts. Her mother was an actress and arts administrator, and her father worked in technical theater. She became heavily involved in music in her teen years, acting as the drum major for her high school marching band.

Georgia moved to the Olympic Peninsula at eighteen years old, to work in Olympic National Park, immersing herself in the beauty of the park with hiking, camping, and kayaking. She spent the next six years working out at Lake Crescent, serving as a groups coordinator, a guest services supervisor, and eventually an operations manager for both Lake Crescent Lodge and Log Cabin Resort. The project that she is the most proud of was developing and updating a training program for guest services staff that was distributed regionally, and even brought Georgia to Alaska to train staff in Glacier Bay National Park.  She is looking forward to bringing her experience in hospitality, operations, and the Olympic Peninsula to the Field Arts and Events Hall.

Since moving to Port Angeles, she has become extremely committed to the Olympic Peninsula and considers this her home. She lives here with her partner Ryan. She feels honored to be part of the Field Arts & Events Hall team, and hopes for a long career in the arts.

judi jones

“This project represents hope for Port Angeles’ future in becoming more than a jumping-off point to the rest of the Olympic Peninsula. We will be able to provide residents and visitors access to much more culture than we currently can.”

Judi Jones graduated from Port Angeles Senior High, attended Peninsula College and raised her daughters in Port Angeles and Sequim. After exploring other places in the world, she is happy to be home again. Judi has an extensive background in nonprofit finance and looks forward to being a part of this project for the long-term.
stephen moriarty

“Recent generous financial gifts have provided a once in a lifetime opportunity to build a community gathering place that will transform our community. It is now up to all of us as citizens to work together and support this project, so our community has the chance to prosper culturally and economically for decades to come.”

Stephen Moriarty was born in Washington, D.C., and moved to Port Angeles with his wife, Deborah, in 1989. Stephen and Deborah raised their family west of Port Angeles. They enjoy traveling and visiting their four children anytime they get the chance.

Stephen earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Clemson University and a Law Degree from the University of South Carolina. Stephen has been practicing law for over 29 years in Clallam and Jefferson Counties. His primary areas of practice are estate planning and probate and trust estate administration.

Stephen participates in many civic activities aside from serving as legal counsel for PAWC. He also serves as legal counsel for the Boys and Girls Club and the Sequim Education Foundation. He has served as President of Clallam County United Way and the Clallam County Bar Association. Stephen recently received United Way of Clallam County’s 2017 Community Impact Award for his service to non-profit organizations and his successful efforts to encourage and support philanthropic giving to local non-profit organizations. Stephen is also a member of the Port Angeles Rotary Club.

OUR BOARD

brooke taylor

Brooke Taylor

President

“To me, Field Hall means the opportunity of a lifetime for the community I love.”

Outside of his career, Brooke Taylor is passionate about community. He served 16 years on the YMCA Board of Directors and was a founding member and former President of the Peninsula College Foundation. In 1998, Brooke was honored with the Clallam County Community Service Award.

A native of Clallam County and graduate of Port Angeles High School, Brooke Taylor earned a Bachelor of Arts from Stanford University, and Juris Doctor Degree from University of Virginia School of Law.

Mr. Taylor practiced law for 38 years in Clallam County, including one term as Prosecuting Attorney. He finished his career in law as Superior Court Judge, a position he was elected to three times. Brooke was elected to serve as President of the 30,000-member Washington State Bar Association in 2005-2006. 

judith morris

Judith Morris

Vice President

“Field Hall will provide an iconic building, reflecting the Olympic Peninsula’s natural beauty, that will serve as a central gathering venue for residents and visitors to participate in and enjoy a wide range of performing and visual arts and community events.”

Originally from New Mexico, Judith Marek Morris has had the privilege of moving around the country and the world following her husband’s career. As a result, Judith’s work history is widely varied. Most recently, Judith served on the staff for Congressman Norm Dicks and Congressman Derek Kilmer. She retired from this position in January 2017. Judith formerly served as President of the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center Board of Directors and serves on the PA Forward committee.

Judith is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer having served in Malawi. She was a cultural resource specialist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in Bristol Bay for six years, served as Executive Director of the Grant County Travel Council in Utah, and worked as Community Liaison Officer for the US Embassy in Lusaka, Zambia. 

Judith earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Sonoma State University and a Master of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Denver.

jeanne martin

Jeanne Martin

Treasurer

“What Field Hall means to me is that residents and visitors on the North Olympic Peninsula will have access to a world class facility for the performing and fine arts that will provide an ongoing economic stimulus for our community.”

Jeanne is a Certified Public Accountant who operated her own tax accounting practice in Sequim for 17 years. She is semi-retired now, mainly working with nonprofit organizations, and she remains as a principal with Cunha & Martin CPAs. Jeanne volunteers much of her free time in the community.

In addition to serving as Treasurer of PAWC, she is Treasurer of the Peninsula College Foundation. She was a co-founder of the Sequim Education Foundation in 2001. She served on the Board of the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center for many years and was honored to be designated Trustee Emeritus.

Prior to having her own tax practice in Sequim, Jeanne served as Controller and Chief Financial officer with Tech Sector companies in the San Francisco Bay Area with $30 million to $100 Million in annual revenues. She has extensive experience in finance and administration, including risk management, information systems, intellectual property protection, and a $50M initial public offering of an information systems service bureau.

Jeanne earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from California State University East Bay and a she holds a Master of Science in Taxation from Golden Gate University.

Jeanne enjoys international travel with her husband Corby Somerville, or just spending time at home with their two cats.

christopher thomsen

Christopher Thomsen

Secretary

“Field Hall is about an entire community coming together to embrace and realize something that is bigger than any one of us.  The Waterfront Center will allow current and future generations of our community to proudly celebrate this shining gem of the Pacific Northwest.” 

Accordion Content
Born and raised in Port Angeles, Christopher Thomsen graduated Port Angeles High School in 1976 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Martin’s University. 

Immediately after graduation, Christopher co-founded and managed a chemical laboratory and manufacturer in Olympia. In 1986, Christopher married Lisa Hille and shortly afterwards, moved to and lived in New Orleans for three years, Kansas City for 26 years and he is now back “home” in Port Angeles.

Christopher has founded or co-founded five different companies and has been awarded two U.S. Patents for his invention of the community and outpatient pharmacy robotic system. Christopher continues to manage The ThomsenGroup Inc., where he is the Founder and President, and Capsa Healthcare where he is a Partner and Vice President.

Christopher Thomsen returned to Port Angeles with the goal of jumping in with both feet, getting his hands dirty, and being able to contribute his creativity, energy, and experience to help others and to make good things happen. He believes that Port Angeles will reach its full potential and become the shining gem that it deserves. Christopher has numerous local affiliations including the Chamber of Commerce, Port Angeles Visitor’s Center, the Port Angeles Education Foundation, North Olympic History Center, North Olympic Land Trust, Jazz in the Olympics, the Port Angeles Waterfront Center, and the National Alumni Board for Saint Martin’s University. 
Matt Deines Board Field Arts Events Hall Port Angeles

MATT DEINES

“Field Hall is a world class venue for Arts and Events in a world class location, the Olympic Peninsula! As a community gathering place, Field Hall will be a cornerstone for the future of Port Angeles and Clallam County. The Port Angeles Waterfront Center will create jobs and economic growth while creating a place for cultural and educational experiences in our community.” 

Matthew P. “Matt” Deines was born and raised in Washington State.  He is married to his wife, Meg and has two children, Mick and Jake.  Matt is an unapologetic Seattle sports fan following the Mariners, Huskies and Seahawks and he longs for the day his beloved Seattle Supersonics return to the NBA. He thoroughly enjoys activities such as golf, hiking, walking and scrolling Twitter.

In 2019, he was elected President and Chief Executive Officer of First Fed and its parent First Northwest Bancorp (FNWB).  As CEO, Matt is committed to empowering employees, delighting customers, and serving the community by investing in people, products, and digital initiatives.

Before joining First Fed, worked briefly as the CFO of Liberty Bank. Prior to that he spent 16 years with Sound Community Bank where he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He received his accounting degree from Loyola Marymount University and MBA from the University of Washington. In 2000, Matt became a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Washington. His license is currently inactive.

Matt has a great appreciation for First Federal’s rich legacy in Port Angeles, the Olympic Peninsula and the Pacific Northwest and he is deeply rooted in the community. He currently serves as a board member for Field Hall and is an Executive Committee Member at St. John Evangelist Parish. He also is a member of the Washington Banker’s Association Board and serves as the organization’s Education Committee Chair.

Deines and his family share time between Seattle and Port Angeles, where they spend time at their second home on Lake Sutherland. The wider home base makes it easier to connect with First Fed employees and customers throughout the area.

Mark Fischer, Field Arts Events Hall Board Member

Mark Fischer

“Thoughtful growth and improvements for our community is so important. Field Arts and Events Hall and the adjacent new Port Angeles Waterfront Center campus will be a trophy for years to include all people. A credo that I have promoted for many years is: ‘Excellence is Mandatory and Mediocrity is not an Option.’ This will certainly apply to Field Hall and future amazing programs.” 

Mark Fischer was born and raised in Port Angeles. He is an alumnus of Jefferson Grade School. Many of his early years were then spent in Oregon, where he went on to received his undergraduate education at Oregon State University, in Corvallis, OR. He started medical school at Oregon Health Sciences Center, in Portland, followed by Internal Medicine and Pulmonary Medicine training and fellowship at San Francisco General Hospital and University of California.

Mark has been living and practicing medicine in Port Angeles since October 1980. His roles at Olympic Medical Center have included Chief of Staff, as well as being a member of the Medical Executive Committee for many years. During his time in Port Angeles, he has also enjoyed helping with many local projects and issues.

Mark has been married to his wife, Jan, for many years. He is blessed with 3 adult children – Jenna, Lindsey, and Rob, and has 10 grandchildren, all of whom he feels are his greatest gifts. Virtually everyone in his family have been immersed in music during their lives, and all enjoy the many outdoor activities and hobbies this area has to offer.

deborah frazier

Deborah Frazier

“Field Hall is a singular opportunity to serve the residents of Port Angles and the surrounding area for today and generations to come. I am grateful to Donna Morris for her generosity and vision for this facility for the arts in the community that we love.” 

Deborah Frazier retired from Peninsula College after a career in public service working for federal, state, county, and municipal governments in a variety of roles. At Peninsula College, Deb served as Vice President for Finance and Administration for 11 years with responsibility for construction and building operations, finance and accounting, Human Resources, information technology, emergency preparedness, and institutional research. During this period, Deb oversaw a $125 million transformation of the College campuses in Port Angeles, Forks, and Port Townsend with the replacement of 82% of the college’s existing 310,000 square footage, and the addition of more than 25,000 new square feet.

Deborah enjoys reading and learning, swimming, biking, hiking and simply living on the beautiful North Olympic Peninsula.
Casi Fors - Headshot

Casi Fors

“To watch this transformation before our very eyes in our downtown waterfront is exciting to me and long overdue. It adds to the charm and beauty of our very own Olympic Peninsula that we call home. It is a state-of-the-art venue for fundraising events, weddings, and conferences. Our children, families and community can experience a world class facility in our own back yard for generations to come.”

Casi Fors, Accredited Investment Fiduciary®, is the lead financial advisor at Fors Financial Consulting, PS and the face of the firm. In 2002, Casi started her career as an Independent Financial Advisor. This was during uncertain times and an uncertain market. Having a good understanding of investment risks and management she took this opportunity to educate her clients in planning for these unstable markets. Subsequent rough economic hardships have made her steadfast in educating and life planning to empower her clients to pursue long-term financial security and confidence.

 

Her wide breadth of experience and her wealth of knowledge skillfully guides the office. As a fee-based asset management advisor her specialties include private wealth management, work with charitable foundations, Donor Advised Funds, 401(k)/403(b) and small business retirement investment strategies.

 

Casi is actively involved in civic services and leadership. She serves on the Kiwanis Club, Field Arts & Event Hall board, the Olympic Medical Center Foundation board, is a past member of the Peninsula Tennis Club and has over 20 years with Babe Ruth Baseball/Softball, to name a few. A life-long resident of Port Angeles, she is well-known and highly regarded throughout the community. Married with two grown children, Casi loves spending her free time with her family, playing with her five grandchildren.  She loves exploring the PNW on hiking trails and is an avid crossfitter.

Pili Meyer - Headshot

Pili Meyer

“I was raised in a family and culture that loves music. Growing up, my brother and I knew the words to all the popular Broadway musicals. We also enjoyed performing in musicals. My sons continue the tradition by playing the violin and alto sax. My husband sings with the Peninsula Men’s Gospel Singers. So, it was very exciting to learn about a world class performing arts center being planned for right here in Port Angeles. In addition, the center promises to make an enormous difference in the downtown, drawing people and businesses. I am deeply impressed with the vision and imagination of those who have brought us this far as well as the commitment of the community to take us to Opening Night of Field Arts & Events Hall.”

Pili was born and raised in Hawaii, which explains her name. Her family moved to Eugene, OR just before she finished high school. Pili went to Mills College in Oakland, CA where she majored in Government. She moved to Port Angeles in the late 70’s and has called this home ever since. She loves the beauty of the area as well as how its isolation has encouraged creativity in those who choose to live here which has produced a lively arts community.

 

Pili recently retired as a Realtor and International Real Estate Speaker. Besides her busy career on the Olympic Peninsula listing and selling real estate, she was very active in the Realtor Association at the local, state, national and international levels. She was honored with the Instructor of the Year by the Washington Realtors twice and by the King County Association of Realtors. She was awarded Realtor of the Year by the Port Angeles Association of Realtors and the Washington Realtors. Real estate activity took Pili around this country and to Malaysia, South Korea, the Philippines, and the Czech Republic where she was a liaison between the National Association of REALTORS and the real estate associations of those countries.

 

Besides enjoying and participating in music, her family has had another strong tradition—community service. Both of her parents were president of their Rotary Club (at different times), and Pili has been an active member of Soroptimist International of Port Angeles. Pili and her husband are long time members of Independent Bible Church, where she serves as a Deaconess.

gail ralston

Gail Ralston

“I am hopeful that past and present Clallam County residents will invest in Field Hall, which will be a monumental anchor for our region.” 

Gail’s story starts with her parents June and F. MacRae Thomson who moved to Port Angeles in 1960. Mac was the mill manager for Peninsula Plywood and an influential leader. Beyond providing jobs, the mill provided a sense of pride for many Peninsula residents, including Gail’s family and her husband’s relatives. With the falling of the mill stack, Gail is hopeful that new waterfront development will trigger the continuation of the mill’s legacy, provide a sense of pride, and improve the economic conditions of the community.

As Co-Chair of PAWC’s Capital Campaign, Gail is organizing fundraising efforts and educating people on the importance and value of the center to the community.

Gail sits on the Hospital Foundation Board of Directors where her primary role is fundraising. To many, she is known as a top duck seller, selling tickets for the Peninsula Duck Derby. She was instrumental in creating the Teddy Bear Tea and has chaired multiple committees for the Festival of Trees. Gail co-founded a Port Angeles Children’s Hospital Guild, which raised money to assist with the payment of care at Seattle Children’s Hospital.

Gail is a graduate of Western Washington University and works as an Assistant Appraiser for Clallam County with 23 years of experience. She is married with three children and three grandchildren. She enjoys swimming in Lake Crescent, traveling the world, caring for others, and continuing her own education through music, lectures, and conferences.
Kim Reynolds Field Arts Events Hall Port Angeles

Kim Reynolds

“We can all agree Port Angeles is one of the most beautiful places in the world. I see Field Arts & Events Hall as the cornerstone to build a thriving, economically-sound community on those already strong and stunning foundations.”

As the proud owner of two successful businesses and a historic building downtown, Kim Reynolds brings a uniquely applicable skillset to the Field Arts and Events Hall. As an adjunct professor and advisor at the Peninsula Community College, she teaches students enrolled in courses on Hospitality and tourism, demonstrating a dedication to future-industry professionals.

 

Originally from Southern California, Kim spent 14 years living in Texas where she married her husband and started her first business. After traveling to all four corners of the globe, Kim finally settled in Port Angeles five years ago. Drawn in by the beautiful blues of the Strait and snow-kissed peaks of the Olympic Peninsula, she is staying put thanks to the warm and strength of our community spirit. 

 

Kim has an M.A. in Organizational Management, B.S. in Business, and a B.A. in Management from the University of Redlands, along with an award for leadership from Cambridge University, achieved during a study abroad program. With an evident aptitude for planning and management, Kim’s primary passion is travel. Having experienced cultures and communities around the world, she knows how important it is for residents to have a center where they can come together to celebrate talent, creativity, and innovation. 

 

Back in 2003, Kim launched her own personal meeting planning business named Strategic Meetings Solutions. Specializing in the orchestration of large-scale corporate, government, and non-profit events, this experience offers invaluable expertise to the project, strengthening the smooth-running of all future events at FAEH. With solid business acumen and a knack for analyzing performance metrics, Kim has grown the firm exponentially over the past two decades. 

 

So much so, that in 2017, Kim branched out with a Cruise Planners franchise to support the group travel planning side of business operations. Named Olympic Travel Agency, this successful venture has a reputation for exceptional customer service, prioritizing and anticipating client needs with long-standing travel industry expertise. With FAEH set to put Port Angeles on the map as a vibrant and thriving cultural hub, Kim’s vast knowledge of the tourism industry is sure to help shape an unforgettable experience for visitors and residents alike. 

 

Owing to a lifetime of prosperity in the events, hospitality and tourism field, Kim has collected an assortment of incredible accolades over the years. Featured in Forbes Magazine Texas Women Business leaders and a member of multiple advisory boards in the meetings and travel space, Kim is known for her commitment, passion, and people-focused mindset. Having already volunteered to co-produce the FAEH groundbreaking and co-authored the center’s Marketing Strategy Operations Roadmap, Kim is clearly well-equipped to further serve her community on the board of directors. 

 

Never one to let an opportunity pass her by, Kim’s most recent project has been the purchase and renovation of a historic building in downtown Port Angeles. This commitment to revitalizing the very fabric of our local community is sure to bring immense value to the Field Arts and Events Hall as it develops into an enriching cultural center at the heart of Port Angeles. 

Scott Scherer - Headshot

Scott Scherer

“As a member of the Board of Field Hall, I am honored to be part of our community of supporters to help create what will become a solid anchor for the arts, business and community events, and a great asset to the Olympic Peninsula and the State of Washington.”

Scott Scherer was born in St. Louis, Missouri, spent many years working for Boeing in Seattle, Washington, and moved to Port Angeles, Washington in 2016 where he has become an announcer at KSQM. Scott spends his spare time enjoying arts and cultural activities including music, theater and ballet. He also enjoys outdoor time as a dog owner, a bird hunter and motorcyclist.

 

Scott is the winner of Airfinance Journal’s lifetime achievement award for his dedication to the aviation finance sector and notably the Cape Town Treaty, which is intended to standardize the transactions involving movable property on the international stage. 

 

During his professional career, Scott helped to found the Aviation Working Group, an international industry organization dedicated to developing policies and regulations to facilitate advanced aviation financing. Previously he led an industry coalition in successful efforts to amend Section 1110 of the US Bankruptcy Code to improve the ability of US airlines to raise aircraft financing. He also played a leading role in negotiating a new Aircraft Sector Understanding (ASU) agreement.

 

Most recently, Scott served as the senior executive focused on policy and regulatory strategies associated with the aircraft financing mission of Boeing Capital Corporation (BCC). He was responsible for arranging, structuring, and providing financing solutions to customers of Boeing products. Previously Scherer had served as vice-president and general manager for BCC’s Aircraft Financial Services organization. Before that role, he was vice-president of customer financing for Boeing and as director – finance and business management for Boeing’s 737/757 programs and as assistant treasurer – customer financing.

 

Scherer holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Texas A&M University. He also participated in the master of business administration program at Seattle University. An active community volunteer, Scherer serves as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for Sequim Community Broadcasting.  Prior, Scott served as a governing board member for the UNIDROIT Foundation, the Dutch-based, not-for-profit funding arm of UNIDROIT (International Institute for the Unification of Private Law) that helps support programs to harmonize international laws

and assists developing countries to modernize their laws. Regionally Scherer was a member of the governing board of trustees for the Pacific Northwest Ballet and also is a past president of the King County, Wash. board of the American Heart Association, and past corporate chair of the Association’s Puget Sound Heart Walk.

BRUCE SKINNER, CFE

“Field Arts & Event Hall will not only be an incredible asset for the arts community, it will go much further than that. It will be a boon to the downtown and to the economy, generating much needed revenue and jobs for the City.”

Bruce Skinner is a highly regarded consultant to the sports and special events industry with vast experience, entering his 48th year in the business.

He served as the Executive Director of the Fiesta Bowl in Phoenix, Arizona, (1980-1990) after serving as Assistant Executive Director for seven years (1973-1980). He then went on to serve as the President of the International Festivals and Events Association (1990-2001).

He is the author of the book, The Complete Guide to Selling Event Sponsorship, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., of New York, and is the founder of the highly successful Arizona Rock n Roll Marathon in Phoenix, Arizona, and the Rock n Roll Marathons and Half Marathons in Seattle and San Antonio. The 2004 race was the largest first time running event in history, with over 29,000 participants.

Known as the “Bowl Director of the 80’s,” Skinner was instrumental in the Fiesta Bowl’s successful bid to crack the New Year’s Day bowl-game lineup, moving the game to January 1st in 1982.  In 1985, the bowl signed a landmark agreement with Sunkist Growers to serve as title sponsor.  The title sponsorship was a first for a Bowl game, and served as a model which bowls and most other sporting and event organizations later followed.

During a period when many schools were independent and not affiliated with a conference, the Bowl staged two national championships during a three year span –

the 1987 game pitted Penn State vs. Miami, and the 1989 contest featured Notre Dame vs. West Virginia. The former was the most-watched college football game of all time.

He also was the Chief Revenue Officer for the 2016 College Football National Championship Game that was held in Phoenix in January of 2016.

Skinner has served as the Executive Director of the Olympic Medical Center Foundation in Port Angeles, Washington, for the past 31 years, producing six fundraising events annually. He also has served as the Executive Director of the Washington Festivals and Events Association since 2017.

nathan west

Nathan West

“I am inspired by the forward progress of PAWC. The Field Hall project directly results in a positive economic infusion through the conversion of underutilized vacant parking lots into a vibrant community activity center. The conference center component will create a new venue capturing new economic growth year-round, but, most importantly in the winter season. The campus approach transforms a key location of our Downtown into a property full of arts, culture, sciences and environmental stewardship all of which further enable our local businesses to thrive.” 

In his free time, Nathan West enjoys time with his wife, children and their many animals, and working on home projects. Nathan is currently the City Manager for the City of Port Angeles. Prior to taking this position Nathan was responsible for the Community and Economic Development Department of the City. Before coming to the Port Angeles area, Nathan managed the Policy Development Section of the Cayman Islands Government Planning Department.

In Washington State Nathan has worked creatively to address regulatory requirements and land use barriers. In the Caymans, Nathan was part of the Governor’s Vision 2008 Round Table developing a strategy for the sustainable development in multiple community assessments including American Institute of Architects Sustainable Design Assessment Teams (SDAT) and Your Town Design Workshops for jurisdictions throughout the U.S.

Nathan earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science from Willamette University and a Master of Science in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Tennessee. Nathan is a member of the American Institute of Certified Planners.
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MAIL • PO Box 71, Port Angeles WA 98362
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