Meet the Executive Board
This is your Team section. Briefly introduce the team then add their bios below. Click here to edit.
Rona Neri
Executive Board - President
Rona, a founding member of our nonprofit, is a passionate wildlife photographer whose work is inspired by both global and local landscapes. Known for her commitment to conservation and community engagement, she uses her art to raise awareness and foster connections between people and nature.
Natasha Lutes
Executive Board - Vice President
Advisory Team - Chair of Waunakee Artisan Market
As a founding member of the non-profit and the leader of WAM, Natasha is dedicated to nurturing Waunakee's vibrant arts scene through strong community engagement. She is committed to supporting local creatives and enriching our village's cultural landscape through the arts..
Edgar Steenwinkel
Executive Board Member
Advisory Team - Chair of Especially Create Waunakee-
Edgar plays a role both on the Board and the Advisory Team. In these roles he combines his background in engineering with expertise in technology. As the founder of the Especially Waunakee initiative, he is focused on fostering creative economy opportunities for individuals with cognitive disabilities, promoting inclusivity and innovation in the community.
Elizabeth Weller
Executive Board - Secretary
Elizabeth, a retired special education teacher, brings her keen eye and exceptional talent to our team, enhancing our vision with her unique perspective. Her insights and experience make her a vital asset to our board.
Meet the Advisory Team
This is your Team section. Briefly introduce the team then add their bios below. Click here to edit.
Erin Chicoine
Advisory Team
Erin is the talented Owner and Photographer behind Studio E Photography, capturing moments with a keen artistic eye. Her foundation in photography from Illinois State University informs her professional approach and creative vision. As a member of Create Waunakee, she brings her photographic expertise to enrich the local arts community.
Deb Nies
Advisory Team - Chair of Groundlings Theater
Deb Nies is a passionate community builder in Waunakee, best known for creating interactive public art installations on Main Street like the Wishing Tree, the Waunakee Chalkboard, and the Wind Phone. Professionally, she is the CMO of eight restaurants and the Executive Producer of Groundlings Theater. Deb channels her passion for connection into mentoring as a Big Sister and supporting others through After Breast Cancer Diagnosis (ABCD).
Dave Perek
Advisory Team - Chair of Make Music Waunakee, Grocery Getaway
Dave Perek is a dedicated community member and musician in Waunakee, best known for his commitment to building a vibrant local music scene. As the new chairperson of Make Music - Waunakee and the music organizer for Grocery Get Away, Dave provides platforms for local artists to connect with the community. He channels his passion for performance and sound through his band, Only Lemons, and his dedication to creating shared musical experiences for everyone.
Emilie Steinman
Advisory Team - Chair of Marketing
As the Chair of Marketing for Create Waunakee, Emilie brings her expertise as the founder of Buoyant Design Studio to the forefront. Leveraging her extensive background in creative brand strategy, web design, and development, she aims to elevate the organization's visibility and impact. Emilie is dedicated to fostering a vibrant creative community within Waunakee.
Elizabeth Teeter
Advisory Team -
Deeply invested in the vibrancy of Waunakee, Elizabeth is both a teacher and an artist herself, championing the power of creativity to build a stronger community. She brings a belief in the transformative impact of shared artistic experiences and opportunities for local engagement
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Kylie West
Advisory Team -
Kylie's role at the Village of Waunakee has been foundational to the development of Create Waunakee's programming, organization, and administration. Her contributions have been essential in shaping the group's structure and initiatives. Continuing her leadership across numerous committees, Kylie remains a driving force within Create Waunakee.
Meet the Staff
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Jennifer Norback
Development Director
As the Development Director at Create Waunakee, Jennifer Norback offers a rich history in the arts, holding a BA in Art History and having worked across various facets of the industry. From managing galleries in Chicago and Paris to directing arts residencies, her experience aligns perfectly with the organization's mission. Jennifer's passion for the arts and expertise in fundraising are key to advancing Create Waunakee's goals.
Shelly Norris
Especially Waunakee - Head Baker & Creative Training Lead
As Head Baker & Creative Training Lead for Especially Waunakee, Shelly Norris shares her extensive baking knowledge with program apprentices. She empowers individuals with cognitive disabilities by teaching them to produce and market delicious cakes and stroopwafels. Through Shelly's guidance, apprentices gain meaningful employment and build self-sufficiency.