NAEA Election

NAEA is an association that is governed by its members and member participation in the election of the National Board of Directors is very important! Current Active Professional, Early Career Professional, Retired, Preservice, and Life members are eligible to vote. This year, members will cast their ballot for Regional Vice President for their respective NAEA region.

The NAEA election will close on January 25, 2026, at 11:59pm ET.

Eligible voters should have received an email containing unique voting credentials from the email address noreply@directvote.net with the subject line “Action Requested: Cast Your Vote in the NAEA Election,” on Monday, December 8. If you do not receive your unique voting credentials on Monday, December 8, please contact our balloting representatives by emailing support@directvote.net or by calling 952-974-2339 (available Monday–Friday, 8:00am–5:00pm).

Candidate information is available below. There are 2 candidates for each region.

 

Eastern Region
SOUTHEASTERN REGION
WESTERN REGION
Pacific Region

Benjamin E. Hoffman - Eastern Region Candidate


Benjamin E. Hoffman

High School Visual Arts Teacher,
Kutztown Area School District

The field of art education holds incredible potential to shape a more just and creative future. Yet equity, diversity, and inclusion remain an ongoing challenge in how we reflect, represent, and respond to the world around us. Activating student voices, celebrating arts educators, and engaging with legislators can elevate our message and strengthen advocacy for the arts on a larger scale. Although many of us are undertaking this work individually, we must continue to collaborate to amplify our efforts and speak with clarity, compassion, and unity. As a champion for all the arts, I believe that music, theatre, dance, and media arts are essential to our shared mission. By leaning on one another, we can inspire the next generation of creative thinkers and change makers. Their ideas and voices will shape vibrant, connected, and inclusive communities.

Education

  • Doctorate of Education, Curriculum & Instruction, Art Education Candidate, Indiana University of Bloomington, IN, Expected December 2026
  • Master of Arts, Arts Administration, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, PA, May 2023
  • Master of Education, Art Education, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, PA, May 2020
  • Bachelor of Science, Art Education, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, PA, December 2015
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts, Fine Arts, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, PA, December 2015
    • Art History Minor, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, PA, December 2015
    • Music Minor, Tuba Performance, Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Kutztown, PA, December 2015

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • 2024–2025 NAEA Delegates Assembly Ad Hoc Committee Member
  • 2024 NAEA Board of Directors Nominating Committee Member
  • 2024 NAEA Newsletter and Website Awards Reviewer, January 2024
  • 2024 School for Art Leaders Reviewer, December 2023
  • 2023 NAEA Eastern Region Art Teacher of the Year Reviewer, December 2022
  • 2023 NAEA Newsletter and Website Awards Reviewer, December 2022
  • Secondary Member At Large National Art Honor Society National Council, July 2022–April 2024
  • School for Art Leaders, Summer 2022 Cohort

 State/Province Activities

  • PAEA Past President, 2025–2027
  • PAEA President, 2022–2025
  • PAEA President-Elect, 2020–2022
  • Team East Committee Member, 2018
  • PAEA Awards Selection Committee, 2018–2020
  • Region 10 Representative, 2018–2020
  • Region 10 Co-Representative, 2017–2018
  • PAEA State Conference Presenter (2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020)
  • WebinART Presenter (2025, 2024, 2019)

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

I have had the privilege of mentoring new staff as they transition into our district. I also work with student leadership through our National Art Honor Society chapter, organizing events that foster unity and engagement. One memorable event was Youth Art Night, cocurated with our chapter president, which featured art stations for elementary students and their families to participate in and feel welcome in our space. Outside the classroom, I enjoy leading community-based projects that invite public participation and foster connection through collaborative artmaking. At the state level, I cofacilitate leadership initiatives with the Pennsylvania Art Education Leadership Coalition. Whether collaborating with local art teachers in my county or extending my reach across the state, I remain committed to supporting every art educator and hope to share even a glimpse of what several influential educators have given me.

Publications/Exhibitions

  • Studio B, Artists of Boyertown’s own Bear Fever Project, Boyertown, PA, May 2025–June 2025
  • “Passion for Art in the Classroom and Community,” The Tower, Kutztown University, Fall 2024
  • “Exploring Oneself Through Artmaking: Reflecting and Responding Through Visual Journaling,” SchoolArts, Summer 2022
  • “Visual Journaling as a Creative & Reflective Practice,” Pennsylvania Art Education Association Blog, January 2022
  • “I’ve Been Teaching for a While Now… What’s Next? Discovering What Opportunities Exist for Art Educators When Considering Master’s Programs,” Pennsylvania Art Education Association Blog, July 2020
  • Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) Educator Showcase, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, Reading, PA, 2018–2020
  • “Tips & Tricks for First Year Educators,” Pennsylvania Art Education Association Blog, August 2018
  • Youth Art Month Exhibition, Harrisburg, PA, In person 2018–2020; Virtual 2021–2022
  • Bethlehem House Gallery, Holiday Show, Bethlehem, PA, October 2017–January 2018

Holly Bess Kincaid - Eastern Region Candidate


Holly Bess Kincaid

Art Educator,
Raleigh County Schools

As Eastern Region Vice President, I aim to strengthen our Region through clear communication, genuine connection, and a shared sense of celebration. I believe deeply in the power of community, and I want every art educator to feel supported, valued, and part of something meaningful. I’m committed to using social media and collaborative platforms to highlight the incredible work happening across our Region and to amplify the resources and opportunities that inspire us.

My priorities include advocating for arts education at every level and making it easier for educators to connect, whether online, through virtual communities, or during regional and national gatherings. Our diverse voices make us stronger, and I want every educator to feel seen, heard, and appreciated.

Together, we can celebrate creativity, share what lifts us up, and nurture the visual voice of every learner and every educator.

Education

  • West Virginia University, BFA Printmaking & Art Education
  • New York University, MA Studio Art
  • NAEA School for Art Leaders

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • Southeastern Region Middle Level Division Representative, NAEA
  • Member, NAEA Ad Hoc Committee on Professional Code of Ethics
  • National Awards Adjudicator, NAEA
  • National Convention proposal reviewer, NAEA
  • Graduate and mentor, NAEA School for Art Leaders
  • NAEA Southeastern Region Middle Division Art Educator of the Year (2006, 2016)
  • Presenter at NAEA Convention, National and Regional Leadership Conferences
  • Participant in National Youth Art Month initiatives and winner of YAM Award of Merit
  • Coordinated and hosted the Southeastern Leadership Conference in Richmond, Virginia
  • Presenter for NAEA back-to-school webinar, 2024

 

State/Province Activities

  • President and Past President, Virginia Art Education Association (VAEA)
  • VAEA Secretary, Middle Division Chair, Social Media Chair, and Webmaster
  • VAEA Middle Division Art Educator of the Year (2005, 2015)
  • Youth Art Month Chair, West Virginia Art Education Association
  • Organizer of the WVAEA Annual State YAM Art Show
  • Presenter for VAEA, WVAEA, and Texas Art Education Association
  • Contributor to Visual Arts Standards review in Virginia and West Virginia
  • Regional VASE Judge (Texas)
  • Created and presented professional development for cross curricular art connections and art educators in Virginia districts and James Madison University
  • Organized and hosted the first virtual art conference for VAEA during the COVID-19 pandemic

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

Advocacy is at the heart of my work as an art educator and mentor. I am committed to supporting teachers at every stage of their journey through encouragement, communication, and purposeful advocacy for our profession. I have mentored preservice and early career educators in Virginia and Texas, offering guidance, resources, and ongoing support. I was honored to be selected as a mentor for the NAEA School for Art Leaders, helping emerging leaders grow in both their professional practice and their advocacy efforts.

In Virginia, I collaborated with the Virginia Commission for the Arts to strengthen statewide partnerships among music, theatre, dance, and visual arts educators, advancing shared advocacy and policy initiatives. I also served in the Connected Arts Network, working to build stronger national communication and collaboration across arts disciplines.

I remain deeply engaged in advocacy work, Youth Art Month, and community partnerships to help educators feel supported, valued, and empowered.

Publications/Exhibitions

  • Contributing author, Studio Thinking From the Start: The K–8 Art Educator’s Handbook
  • Author, SchoolArts Magazine article (Fall 2025)
  • Member, West Virginia Visual Arts Standards writing team
  • Curriculum development contributor, Harrisonburg City Schools (VA)
  • Exhibitor in juried and invitational shows nationally and internationally
  • Active studio artist combining personal practice with educational leadership
  • Articles for VAEA News
  • Guest on K12ArtChat, The Art of Education, Institute for Arts Integration, Art Class Curator
  • Record album art published
  • Illustrations in several books, including If Picasso Had a Christmas Tree and Remembering the Ladies: From Patriots in Petticoats to Presidential Candidates

Melissa Poppe - Southeastern Region Candidate


Melissa Poppe

Art Educator,
Wake County Public School System

As a NAEA Southeastern Region member and Delegates Assembly representative, I hear the needs of our Region. In the current political climate, many of our regional members have voiced their needs and require different strategies for ED&I because of their state’s restrictions. We will look to the Research Commission; Research & Knowledge Strategic Vision pillar; Public Policy and Administration Interest Group; and NAEA Advocacy Committee to find methods we can use. We will use our position statements as a foundation for support but look for legislation or aid to influence and raise awareness of the need for diversity. At a time when finding and retaining teachers remains important, we can demonstrate how NAEA supports art educators.

My vision statement emerges to find ways to raise the voices of our art teachers and their students and programs. We will collaborate to search for new ways to give support and advocate for art education.

Education

  • Bachelors of Fine Arts, Concentration in Art Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
  • Audited three Masters in Art Education classes at East Carolina University

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • President-Elect for the North Carolina Art Education Association (NCAEA), January 2020–December 2021, President (January 2022–December 2023), Past President (June 2022–December 2025)
  • Leadership Conferences: online (2020) and in person (Richmond, 2021; Utah, 2022; Memphis, 2023; Mississippi, June 2025).
  • In Utah, I presented with Whitney Hern on the subject of advocacy and connection.
  • I served as a NC Delegate Assembly Representative in 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
  • I presented though the NAEA webinar series for beginning teachers.
  • I aided in editing NAEA position statements at the regional and national level.
  • I reviewed and judged applications for the Retired Educator of the Year (2023), the Newsletter/Website of the Year (2024), and award recipients (2026).
  • I reviewed proposals for the 2024 NAEA Convention.

State/Province Activities

  • From January 2020 to December 2021, I served as NCAEA Membership Chair/President-Elect.
  • From January 2022 to December 2023, I served as President and oversaw all committees.
  • From April 2023 to present (term ends Dember 31, 2025), Past President/Conference Chair, took over for Past President halfway through my 1st year of President. I have planned four conferences.
  • In 2018, NCAEA honored me with Secondary Art Educator of the Year and Art Educator of the Year.
  • I write articles for the ByDesign newsletter since becoming NCAEA president.
  • Prior to becoming president in 2020, I served as Region 3 coordinator and Secondary Division Chair.

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

  • Since 2018, I present guest lectures for college art education programs (Meredith College, University of North Carolina at Asheville, University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and East Carolina University).
  • Green Hope High Art Club Sponsor, 2003–2010
  • Green Hope High National Art Honor Society Sponsor, 2011–Present
  • Green Hope High Mentor, 2007–2024
  • Green Hope High Mentor Coordinator, 2010–2017
  • Coordinating Teacher for Meredith College, 2016
  • Continuously enter my students in art shows throughout the year local, state, and nationally. My students and I have won national Scholastic Art and Writing Awards since 2013 (2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021, 2024, and 2025). When accepting the awards, I attended the ceremony and professional development in New York City.

Publications/Exhibitions

  • 2020–2025 NCAEA ByDesign Newsletter
  • Member of an artist co-op from 2015 to 2020
  • 2021: NCAEA member show (unjuried) and NC State Fair (2 pieces juried in)
  • 2022: NCAEA member show (unjuried) and NC State Fair (1 piece juried in)
  • 2023: NCAEA member show (unjuried) and NC State Fair (2 pieces juried in)
  • 2024: NCAEA member show (unjuried) and NC State Fair (2 pieces juried in)

 

Minuette Floyd - Southeastern Region Candidate


Minuette Floyd

Professor, Art Education,
University of South Carolina

My vision for our National Art Education Association is to continue to prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I), as a core pillar of our work. In a time of greater volatility, our association must navigate challenges by understanding the unique experiences within our communities. As a liaison to the ED&I Commission, I’ve seen firsthand how essential this work is to inform our policies and programming, ensuring we promote belonging, empowerment, and advocacy. This means we must continue to examine our own biases and disrupt systemic inequities by centering all narratives, especially those that are missing. We must foster environments that prioritize the humanity and agency of our learners and educators. We are not building a new structure from the ground up but rather fortifying a strong foundation of resilience and hope. Together, we can build a more compassionate and equitable future for art education.

Education

  • PhD in Art Education, Florida State University
  • Master’s in Art Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro,
  • Bachelor of Art in Studio, Winston Salem State University

NAEA National & Regional Activities

  • Committee member, Professional Learning and Research (PLR)
  • Served as the NAEA Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion state liaison.
  • Chaired the Committee on Multiethnic Concerns (COMC) for 4 years.
  • Participated in Delegates Assembly at NAEA while chair of the Committee on Multiethnic Concerns for 3 years.
  • Worked with ED&I facilitators to plan a Cultural Competency Training for our SCAEA board.
  • Presented annually at the NAEA Convention since 2001 (minus the COVID year)

State/Province Activities

  • Chair, South Carolina Art Education Association (SCAEA) Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
  • Serve as the South Carolina Art Education Association Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, Inaugural Chair (since 2021).
  • Presented annually at the SCAEA Conference since 1997 (minus the COVID year)
  • SCAEA Treasurer (1998–2000)
  • SCAEA Art Educator of the Year
  • SCAEA Higher Education Award
  • McArthur Goodwin Service Award
  • Deborah Smith Hoffman Mentor Award
  • Lifetime Achievement Award

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

  • Coordinate and direct a Young Artist’s Workshop program for children at the University of South Carolina since 1998.
  • Supervisor for student teachers (1997–2003)
  • Coordinate practicum experiences for our USC art education majors.
  • Faculty advisor for our NAEA student chapter (2001–2004)
  • Mentor for Preston Residential Living Learning Community at the University of South Carolina.
  • Mentored USC students at the Center for Integrative and Experiential Learning Center (CIEL) at USC for Graduation with Leadership Distinction.
  • Volunteered and provided art classes at an elementary school whose demographic was 100% African American in Columbia, SC (1998–2007).
  • Hosted two National Art Honor Society Saturday conferences in our School of Visual Art and Design.
  • Partnered with the Columbia Museum of Art and provided art programming and public presentations based on temporary exhibitions.
  • Provided a full day Batik workshop for students at a local Mandarin language-focused charter school

Publications/Exhibitions

  • Exhibition: This Far by Faith: Carolina Camp Meetings, An African American Tradition is a traveling documentary photography exhibition.
  • Book: A Place to Worship: African American Camp Meetings in the Carolinas. University of South Carolina Press. August 15, 2018.
  • Book: The Untold Story: Visual Essays on America’s Reconstruction (with J. Brent Morris). Low Country Scholars. 2015.
  • Book Chapters
    • Pottery by Eugene: A Primary Resource for Art Educators. In Place It/Face It (pp. 32–41). McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina. 2018.
    • African American Self-Taught Artists From South Carolina: Catalyst for Identifying Community Connections and Teaching and Learning in the Art Room. In Art, Culture, and Ethnicity (2nd edition). 2011.
    • A Celebration in Three-Dimensions. In Art Worlds in Transition: Art in a Multicultural Society. Edited by Mary Erickson & Bernard Young. National Art Education Association. 2002.
    • More Than Just a Field Trip: Making Relevant Curricular Connections Through Museum Experiences. Art Education, 39–45. September 2002.
  • Fastback: Interdisciplinary Instruction Using Museums. Phi Delta Kappa Educational Foundation, Number 524. 2004
  • Select Articles
    • Standing on Holy Ground: African American Camp Meetings in South Carolina. The Black Folklorist. (Accepted)
    • Cultivating Character Education Through Art. British Columbia Art Teachers Association Journal, 10–13, 18– Spring/Summer 2002.
  • Editorship
    • Manuscript Reviewer, Interdisciplinary Learning Through Creative Processes: Theory and Praxis of Arts-Based Culturally Relevant Pedagogies in K-12 Pedagogies. Canadian Scholars. November 2023–January 2024.

Gayle Trueblood - Western Region Candidate


Gayle Trueblood

Visual Arts Educator,
Lima Shawnee Public Schools

As a leader in art education, I am committed to cultivating an inclusive, dynamic, and forward-thinking community grounded in equity, diversity, and inclusion (ED&I), research-based practice, advocacy, and meaningful community engagement. Guided by the NAEA Strategic Vision goals, I strive to create spaces where diverse perspectives are valued and where artists and educators are empowered to use art as a catalyst for justice and change.

My leadership centers on embedding ED&I principles into all facets of our profession—amplifying underrepresented voices, promoting culturally responsive teaching, and supporting professional growth that challenges bias and fosters inclusive learning. I am dedicated to advancing innovation through research at the intersection of art, education, and social justice while advocating for contemporary, community-based, and multicultural practices.

By strengthening collaboration among educators, students, artists, and cultural institutions, I aim to build a resilient art education community rooted in shared purpose and reflective, forward-looking practice.

Education

  • Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio
    • Bachelor of Science in Education, 1999
    • Graduate & Professional Development

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • NAEA School for Art Leaders, Class of 2021
  • Secondary Western Region Chair, 2022–2024 and 2025–present
  • ED&I Commission Liaison, 2025–present
  • Delegates Assembly member, 2021–2025
  • Presenter and speaker, 2023–2025
  • Western/Summer Regional leadership meetings, 2018–present
  • Design Interest Group, 2024–present
  • Webinar participant
  • ArtEffect ambassador, 2025–2026

State/Province Activities

  • Past President, Ohio Art Education Association (current)
  • President, Ohio Art Education Association, 2023–2025
  • President-Elect, 2019–2021
  • State Membership Chair, 2018–2020
  • Second Vice President, 2017–2018
  • Elected Assembly Member, 2016–2017
  • PR/Advocacy Chair, Northwest Ohio, 2015–2016
  • Outstanding Art Educator, Northwest Ohio, 2018
  • Ohio Art Education Association Secondary Art Educator of the Year, 2025
  • OAEA ED&I Committee Chair, 2025–Present

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

In my work at Lima Shawnee Schools and within the broader arts education community, I am committed to fostering meaningful connections that support both student growth and professional collaboration. As the Lima Shawnee Art Club Advisor (2023–present), I create an engaging, inclusive space where students explore their interests, develop leadership skills, and build community through the arts. Since 2015, I have also served as a mentor, guiding new educators as they navigate classroom practice, curriculum development, and professional responsibilities.

In addition, my service as a leader within the Ohio Art Education Association strengthens my commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and statewide partnership building. Through these roles, I strive to nurture creativity, empower emerging educators, and cultivate strong, connected communities in and beyond the classroom.

Publications/Exhibitions

  • Bowling Green State University Student Exhibition, 1995–1999
  • Present Student Exhibition, 2000
  • Personal Collection, The Meeting Place (Lima, Ohio), 2008
  • Work Exhibited at ArtSpace Lima, 2012
  • Ohio Art Education Association Teacher as Artist Exhibition 2024

Jared Hulstine - Western Region Candidate

 

Jared Hulstine

High School Visual Art Educator,
Sioux Falls School District

I am focused on practical support to ensure every art educator can thrive and feel connected. I commit to continually embedding inclusive practices across NAEA, ensuring diverse voices shape our learning, research, and advocacy. I will work to continue making NAEA a truly welcoming space where every member feels valued and represented, fostering genuine equity and belonging. I will prioritize accessible professional development addressing contemporary needs and continuous growth. We should enhance our research to better share knowledge and best practices in the field. I will also work to amplify NAEA’s collective voice alongside the Arts Education Alliance to secure essential support nationwide, stressing that art education is a critical driver for student success. My goal is to foster a strong community, reaching out to connect members and all art educators, especially those who feel isolated. My commitment is to serve my colleagues—past, present, and future.

Education

Fort Hays State University BSE, Art Education BFA, Studio Art 2002–2007

Fort Hays State University Master of Science, MS in Instructional Technology, Jan 2020–July 2022

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • NAEA Membership History: Member in Kansas (2008–2011), Kentucky (2011–2017), and South Dakota (2017–present).
  • NAEA Convention Attendance: Attended virtually (2022) and in person (2024, 2025).
  • NAEA Delegates Assembly: Served as the South Dakota representative (2024 and 2025).
  • NAEA CAN PLC Participation: Accepted into the CAN PLC (2023) and active in cohort/action research (2024–present).
  • Regional Conference Attendance: Attended the Western Region Conference in Wichita, KS (June 2025).
  • CAN PLC Model Development: Working to design a state-level PLC model in South Dakota based on the CAN model.
  • Focus on Rural Support: Developing the state PLC model specifically to support rural art educators.
  • State Conference Presentations: Presented at two South Dakota State Art Education Conferences, with a third scheduled for fall 2025.
  • Professional Art Educator: Served in Kentucky (2011–2017) and South Dakota (2017–present).
  • Ongoing CAN Collaboration: Actively continuing collaboration with the CAN PLC for inspiration and action research.

State/Province Activities

  • SDAEA Leadership: Served as President-Elect for a short term before becoming President (2023–present).
  • Successful Transition: Oversaw the nomination and election of a new VP/President-Elect (Fall 2024).
  • Conference Collaboration: Continued shared conference hosting duties with the SDCAA to enrich programming and conserve resources.
  • Fiscal Responsibility: The board has balanced the association’s budget, ensuring the organization is in the black.
  • Board Retreat & Strategy: Conducted the board’s first retreat, completing a nonprofit assessment and analysis.
  • Strategic Vision: Created three priorities for the organization as part of a new strategic vision.
  • Governance Documentation: Developed detailed overviews of all board positions, duties, and timelines.
  • Policy Implementation: Implemented consent-to-serve forms, a conflict-of-interest disclosure, and financial policies for proper accounting.
  • Membership Growth Goal: Actively updating the statewide art teacher database to increase membership by 10% to 15%.
  • Communication Strategy: Developed a timeline for social media posts and outlined two regular newsletters (post-fall conference and spring NAEA Convention).

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

I believe in building a strong future for art education by supporting both students and new teachers. My commitment starts with student leadership. In 2023, I was proud to start the first National Art Honor Society (NAHS) chapter in Sioux Falls at Jefferson High School. This group gives young artists important chances to lead and serve. Now, I am actively working to help colleagues start NAHS chapters at other schools to spread this positive impact across the state.

I also focus on supporting new professionals. I have hosted and guided three student teachers from state universities (2021, 2022, 2025) and numerous practicum students. By sharing real-world classroom experience and practical advice, I help these future art educators gain the confidence and skills they need to succeed. Mentorship is how we ensure our field stays strong and vibrant for years to come.

Publications/Exhibitions

Current Publications Status: No publications at this time.

Current Exhibits Status: Has had a hiatus since last showing work in 2017. Will be presenting work in the Sioux Falls School District Art Educators exhibition at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls in 2026.

Future Publication Goal: Professional goal to write and publish first professional work in collaboration with Frank Juárez (CAN PLC Teacher Leader and SchoolArts editor). The issue is focused on collaboration.

Future Artmaking Goal: Professional goal to reinvigorate dormant artmaking practice outside of making art with students daily.

Future Exhibition Goal: Professional goal to show new work in exhibitions and submit work to more shows.

Becky Broyles - Pacific Region Candidate


Becky Broyles

9-12 Visual/Media Arts Educator;
WAEA co-President

As a proven leader who has led a successful state organization advocating for arts in all schools and running a robust professional development program, I am committed to empowering diverse art educators across the Pacific Region. I will fight restrictive policies, advocate for equitable arts education, and uplift voices often unheard due to barriers or marginalized policies. Supporting this vision, I’ll promote mentoring, virtual events, and technology training—helping us “draw” new connections when travel is a challenge. Connecting with corporate sponsors will enhance member involvement through incentives and awards. I also plan to explore integrating Career Readiness into the Arts Standards to strengthen arts-CTE collaboration and push for fair funding. My goal is to create a collaborative, innovative region that values all modalities, embraces diversity, and champions art education as a vital tool for cultural understanding and personal growth. Be Pacific. Together, we can frame a brighter, more inclusive future.

Education

  • Master of Education (MEd), Washington State University, May 2011
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in History, Washington State University, May 2005
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Digital Technology and Culture, Washington State University, May 2005

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • 2025 NAEA Convention, Chicago: Presented Building Regional Advocacy Using Custom Google Maps: Making Data Visual—demonstrating innovative ways to leverage data for advocacy.
  • 2025 Pacific Region Leadership Summer Conference, Greeley, CO: Led a session, Creating Regional Data Maps Using Spreadsheet Data, facilitating strategic decision making for regional growth. Collaborated closely with the Pacific VP on planning for the future of the Pacific Region.
  • 2025 NAEA Convention, Kentucky: Organized, budgeted, and marketed the Pacific Region’s Happy Hour at 21c Art Museum for 60 attendees and a dinner for 20 at a private dining room, fostering regional connections. Co-presented a workshop in the Art & Media Technology PechaKucha: Running a Design Studio: Graphics, Photo, Fashion, and Portfolio Courses, simplifying complex concepts into an engaging 70-minute session. Served as a Delegate at the Delegate Assembly.
  • 2025 Art for All Coalition: As WAEA representative (2023–2025), I work within this statewide coalition—including arts organizations, the Department of Education, and Department of Commerce—to advocate for equitable access to arts education and resources for preK–12 students across Washington State.
  • 2024 NAEA National Leadership Conference, Detroit: Delivered a highly engaging and dynamic workshop titled Building Regional Advocacy Using Custom Google Maps: Making Data Visual, which received widespread acclaim and left the audience inspired and energized.
  • 2024 NAEA Convention, Minneapolis: Served as a Delegate at the Delegates Assembly. Orchestrated, budgeted, and promoted a successful dinner and after-hours party for 20 Pacific Region colleagues in a private speakeasy. Additionally, captured key moments of the Pacific Region Awards Ceremony and actively participated in all Leader to Leader (L2L) meetings.
  • 2023 NAEA Convention, San Antonio: Attended as a Delegate and served as WAEA co-President-Elect. Organized, budgeted, and promoted a lively dinner for 20 Pacific colleagues at a local restaurant, fostering regional camaraderie. Volunteered at the Awards Ceremony, enhancing the recognition of regional talent.
  • 2022 NAEA Convention, New York: As a Delegate and guest co-President-Elect of WAEA, coordinated a successful happy hour for 10 colleagues and awarded regional achievements, further demonstrating my ability to lead and unite the arts education community.

State/Province Activities

Executive Board Roles in WAEA:

  • Co-President (2022–2025)
  • Co-President-Elect (2021–2022)

Advisory Board and Chair Positions in WAEA:

  • Fall Conference Planning Team/Leader (2021–present)
  • Professional Development Chair (2023–present), Virtual Workshop Chair (2020–present), Clock Hour Chair (2023–present),
  • Communications Chair for E-News (2023–present), Social Media (2019–present),
  • Splatter Newsletter coeditor (2024–2025), Graphic Designer (2020–present),
  • Webmaster (2019–present)
  • Scholarship Chair (2023–2024), Awards Chair (2020–2024), Awards Committee (2024–present), YAM Chair (2020–2022), JEDI Committee member (2019–present), Advocacy Committee member (2023–present)

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

I am deeply committed to mentorship and fostering community partnerships. Recently, advocated for funding and brought Mark Moody (WAEA Co-President-Elect 2025) to the NAEA National Convention and WAEA Pacific Leadership Training. I regularly mentor the Co-President, Co-President-Elect, board members, and members in using tools like Canva, Google Drive, Weebly, and MailChimp, ensuring effective communication and branding. I actively collaborate with James Andrews, WAEA Advocacy Representative, to engage state officials, clarify arts endorsements, and develop a data dashboard with ArtsEd WA and the Arts for All Coalition, aiming to support full implementation of arts laws. I also partner with BRIC Foundation and WACOM to improve media arts offerings and professional development, including presentations and social media content. Additionally, I have worked with the Migrant ED program in WA for 3 years, producing the Art of Belonging Conference and designing their logo, strengthening cultural connections through art.

Publications/Exhibitions

  • “Let’s Meet Becky Broyles,” TAB Storytellers Podcast (January 2024)
  • “Assessment: A Love Story,” Splatter, WAEA Publication (Fall 2025); Letter From the Co-Presidents, Splatter, WAEA Publication (Fall 2025, Summer 2024, Spring 2024)
  • The Arts Are Essential, State OSPI document developed by the OSPI Arts Education Advisory Team (2020)
  • The Arts Learning Standards: Entry Points, State OSPI document developed by the OSPI Arts Education Advisory Team (2020)
  • Considerations for the Arts: Dance, Media, Music, Theatre, Visual Arts, State OSPI document developed by the OSPI Statewide Arts Guidance on Reopening Schools Committee (2020) featuring my Media Arts Remote Resources Living Spreadsheet. (2020). Published in state resources that were facilitated and vetted to bring resources together for remote media arts educators.
  • WAEA E-News Newsletters. Published bimonthly online and distributed via MailChimp to 1,500 people with a 60% open rate. (January 2023–present)
  • WAEA Virtual Workshops, organized and hosted by me monthly on Zoom; recorded, published, and distributed on the WAEA website for professional development and community vibrancy. (November 2020–present)
  • ESD112 OPSI Regional Art Show Guest Speaker on Remote Learning. ESD 112 Regional Art Show Video Presentation (April 2021).
  • EXHIBITS: 2025 KCAI ArtLab Educator Exhibit (Kansas City Art Institute), 2024; Crossroads of Creativity Teachers as Artists Show: In This Moment (Gallery One, Ellensberg, WA) 2024; Teachers as Artists Show: The Way I See It (Collaboration between WAEA, OAEA, and Maryhill Museum, virtual), 2022; Teachers as Artists Show: Examine; Emerge; Enlighten (Collaboration between WAEA and Maryhill Museum, virtual), 2021; KCAI ArtLab Educator Exhibit (Kansas City Art Institute), 2021; Teachers as Artists Show: Connections (Collaboration between WAEA, OAEA, and Maryhill Museum, and the Tacoma Art Museum, virtual), 2019; SCAD Educator Forum, Art Exhibit (SCAD, Hong Kong)

Melissa Stephenson - Pacific Region Candidate


Melissa Stephenson

Art Teacher,
West Ada School District

As Pacific Region Vice President, my vision is to position the arts as a vital force in shaping educational policy, student engagement, and community connection. I am committed to advocating for the essential role of art education—especially in the face of legislative challenges—and to championing inclusive practices that ensure all students and educators feel seen, valued, and empowered through the arts.

My vision includes building strong, strategic partnerships across state and provincial art education associations as well as collaborating with allied arts disciplines to collectively strengthen our national voice for arts education. I am especially focused on supporting smaller and more rural or geographically isolated associations by developing mentorship networks and resource-sharing systems that equip them to grow their organizational capacity, advocate effectively, and serve their members with confidence and purpose.

NAEA National/Regional Activities

  • NAEA Delegate, Delegates Assembly: 2023–2025
  • NAEA Convention Presenter, 2024
  • Pacific Region Leadership Conference attendee: 2023, 2025
  • NAEA National Leadership Conference attendee: 2024

State/Province Activities

  • Idaho Art Education Association Conference Presenter, 2020–2025
  • Idaho Art Education Association President, 2023–2025
  • Idaho AEA Youth Art Month (YAM) Coordinator, 2024–2026
  • Idaho AEA Awards Coordinator, 2023–2025
  • Advocacy Chair, 2023–2025

Candidate’s Commitment to Mentorship and Community Partnerships

  • Supervising mentor/cooperating teacher through Boise State and Idaho State Universities
  • IAEA Representative, Arts Education Alliance of Idaho (AEAI)
  • Mentorship of IAEA President-Elect and Onboarding Executive Members

Publications/Exhibitions

IAEA Sketchpad Newsletter (2023–2025) Produced seven editions of the Idaho Art Education Association’s Sketchpad newsletter as President. Each issue included a presidential address, original lesson plans, curated member resources, and updates on state and regional professional development opportunities. Editions Published: Fall 2023, Winter 2024, Spring 2024, Summer 2024, Fall 2024, Winter 2025, Spring 2025

Idaho Art Education Association Member Art Show (2019)

Participated in the member art show at IAEA’s state conference in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho