However, fulfilling my duties as a Board Member requires me to travel to Berlin, Germany, for our annual conference this year for dates of May 11th to 20th. While I am passionate about serving in this capacity, the financial burden of travel expenses presents a significant challenge for me as an independent creative.

Since leaving formal employment in 2022, I have been working tirelessly as an independent artist, educator, and entrepreneur. My endeavors include contract work at the Pittsburgh Glass Center, teaching engagements, and building my business, Taming Lightning. While these pursuits bring me immense joy and fulfillment, they do not always provide a stable or sufficient income.

As a result, I am reaching out to you, my community, for support. Your generosity will enable me to attend the Glass Art Society meetings in Berlin and fulfill my responsibilities as a Board Member effectively. By contributing to this campaign, you will not only support me personally but also help advance the mission and impact of the glass art community worldwide.

A Board Member position is a privilege that affords individuals the opportunity to influence and shape our community positively. Your support demonstrates belief in my efforts, struggles, and contributions over the past seven years. It signifies a recognition of my potential to further enhance the field of glass art and contribute to the ever-evolving community of neon and plasma light artists.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings me one step closer to fulfilling this important role and making a meaningful difference in the world of glass art. Thank you for considering my request, and thank you for your continued support of the arts.

With gratitude,