<![CDATA[MONROE WALTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS - Board Briefs]]>Mon, 20 Jul 2026 10:15:27 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[December 18, 2025 board meeting]]>Sun, 28 Dec 2025 01:08:30 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/board-briefs/december-18-2025-board-meetingMWCA Board Brief (for the month of November)
Board of Directors Meeting Summary
December 18, 2025

The Board of Directors of Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts met on December 18 for its final meeting of the year, reflecting on a strong 2025 and looking ahead to an exciting new chapter.

Leadership & Gratitude
Board President Juli Tredwell presided over her final meeting and offered heartfelt encouragement to incoming leadership. The Board expressed deep appreciation for her service and leadership, and Juli shared her intention to remain involved as a volunteer and supporter of MWCA.

Financial Health & Stability
The Treasurer reported that MWCA remains on solid financial footing, with strong cash reserves, healthy net assets, and approximately eight months of administrative expenses covered. Public support revenue continues to outperform budget expectations, and several new grant applications were submitted in December. Deferred revenue remains strong, positioning the organization well for the coming year.

Director’s Report & Transition Planning
November was a successful month for the Arts Center, with gift shop sales exceeding last year’s numbers and strong outcomes from community fundraisers, including BBQ Day and Shop Small Saturday. Social media engagement continues to grow, increasing visibility and reach.

The Board also reviewed progress on a thoughtful, six-month transition plan to support incoming on-site Director Heather Howard, ensuring continuity, clarity, and a smooth leadership handoff in early 2026.

Program & Committee Highlights
  • Education: Approximately 153 students were served in November. Planning is underway for new classes and the 2026 teaching calendar.
  • Events: Mistletoe in Monroe was a major success, with an estimated net benefit of over $11,000. Early discussions also began for a future gala event.
  • Fundraising: The year-end Art for All campaign is underway, and new partnerships and fundraising opportunities are being explored for spring 2026.
  • Gallery: The Members Show art drop off begins January 4, and MWCA artwork is currently featured at The Roe.
  • Literary Arts: Weekly open writing sessions for adults will continue on Mondays.
  • Volunteers: November saw 35 volunteers contribute more than 400 hours of service. The Board expressed special appreciation to the Cheer Crew and event volunteers.
Looking Ahead
The Board will begin a review of standing committees in January to ensure alignment, efficiency, and continued growth. Board members were also invited to contribute highlights and data for the upcoming 2025 Impact Report.

The meeting concluded with unanimous Board approval of leadership and staffing arrangements that support transparency, continuity, and MWCA’s long-term success.
​
The Board adjourned with gratitude for a strong year and optimism for an inspiring 2026.​

]]><![CDATA[Board Brief for Nov 2025]]>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 17:17:47 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/board-briefs/board-brief-for-nov-2025​MWCA Board Brief: Highlights from the November 20, 2025 Meeting
The MWCA Board of Directors met on November 20, 2025, to review fall programming, financial updates, upcoming events, and plans for the new year. Here are the key takeaways:

Leadership & Welcome
  • President Juli Tredwell opened the meeting with a “Spirit of Thankfulness” message as we head into the holiday season.
  • The Board officially welcomed Susie Skillman as MWCA’s new Events Chair.

Financial Overview
  • October followed a familiar seasonal trend, ending with a small deficit — consistent with last year’s pattern.
  • Year-to-date revenue is strong: 22% over budget and 20% higher than 2024.
  • MWCA holds reserves equal to about eight months of administrative expenses, reflecting improved financial stability.

Director’s Report
  • Fall Fest and shop sales made October a vibrant month.
  • New donor-thank-you initiatives are underway, including a custom annual art stamp and seed packets funded by a $500 4imprint grant.
  • A new sidewalk sign has been installed, and our upgraded Square register is now in place.
  • The Mistletoe in Monroe Christmas Tour is selling briskly — more than half of all tickets were sold by the meeting date.
  • Social media visibility continues to grow, with increased engagement and support from Downtown Monroe, the City of Monroe, and the Chamber.

Committee Highlights - Education
  • Amy’s preschool class is going well, and all weekly classes continue through November before pausing in December.
  • Pottery raised $1,200 at Fall Fest to enhance the studio and holiday décor.
  • MWCA served 185 students this month.
  • A teachers’ planning meeting for 2026 is scheduled for December.
Events
  • The Christmas Tour of Homes is the major upcoming event.
  • New fundraising ideas were discussed, including a 5K Color Run, Kids’ Art Auction, Progressive Dinner, and more.
Fundraising
  • Welcomed two new sponsors: Kemko and 210 Solutions.
  • $620 raised so far for ArtReach.
  • Strong partnerships are building with A Child’s Voice and the Loganville Rotary.
  • A clear sponsorship workflow is now in place.
Gallery
  • The Christmas Show is beautifully installed, with improvement ideas already in mind for next year.
  • The annual Members Show is scheduled for January.
Guild
  • Recent workshops, including framing and alcohol-ink ornaments, received great feedback.
  • Member surveys will go out in December to guide 2026 programming.
Literary Arts
  • The Monday writing group will wrap up its current session in December.
Membership / Art MD
  • MWCA now has 352 active members (13 new; 17 renewed in October).
  • Patron-level thank-you notes were sent.
  • New ideas are being explored to expand the Art MD program, including a potential Alzheimer’s-friendly kit.
Volunteers
  • A major deep-clean brought wonderful progress thanks to a dedicated volunteer team!
  • 21 volunteers served 441+ hours in October.
  • Preparations are underway for the Elf Shopping helpers this weekend.
Old & New Business
  • Volunteer Appreciation Party: Scheduled for February 1, 2026 at Oak & Vine.
  • Annual Members Meeting: The 2026 officer slate was reviewed and approved.
  • Garden Seating: Concerns over vandalism prompted a proposal for new picnic tables; further discussion to come.
  • Future Booking Platform: A new registration system proposal will be considered in 2026.

The meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM.
Thank you for supporting MWCA as we continue teaching, sharing, and caring through the arts. 💛🎨

]]><![CDATA[October Board Brief]]>Tue, 21 Oct 2025 01:14:02 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/board-briefs/october-board-brief🎨 MWCA Board Brief
Meeting Date: October 16, 2025
Attendees: Hope Reese (Director), Nancy Moate (Treasurer), Marla Surette (Secretary), Donna Coffman (Education), Barbara Barth (Literary), Kamden Ecker (Membership), Jennifer Dominy (Gallery), Robbin Moore (Volunteer), Tracey Williamson Davis (Guild)
Absent: Juli Tredwell (President), Amy Weems (Fundraising)
Guest: Susie Skillman

🌟 Highlights
  • Finances: September finished positive, showing a steady growth trend. Year-to-date revenue is 21% above budget and 2024 levels.
  • New Calendar Fundraiser: The 2026 MWCA Calendar is now available — thanks to Rebecca, Kamden, Molly, and Tracey for their work!
  • Community Events:
    • Dino Day and Kids Art Day drew strong participation.
    • Planning continues for Mistletoe in Monroe with 5 private homes and 2 public buildings confirmed so far.
    • Christmas Gift Show opens November 1 — meet the artists and shop local!
  • Holiday Thursdays: MWCA will stay open for Candlelight Shopping Nights in November and December, featuring possible drop-in art projects, Sip & Shop, and a new “Santa’s Little Shoppers” kids’ gift experience.
  • City Partnerships: Monroe’s social media has been actively sharing MWCA events — a great boost in community visibility!

🧑‍🎨 Committee Updates
Education (Donna Coffman)
  • 246 students served in September.
  • Exploring adding a second dehumidifier upstairs.
Gallery (Jennifer Dominy)
  • Regional Show sales totaled $960.
  • Christmas Market opens Nov. 1.
Guild (Tracey Davis)
  • September’s Product Photography Workshop was well attended.
  • Planning a Holiday Ornament Workshop (Nov. 15) and future professional development events.
Literary (Barbara Barth)
  • Lori Duff book signing Oct. 19 (2–4 PM).
  • Working to grow the Monday adult writers’ group.
Membership (Kamden Ecker)
  • 24 new/renewing members in September (338 total).
  • Pottery studio reorganization progressing.
  • Annual Members Meeting: Dec. 7 at 2 PM (tea & cookies).
  • Planning to move the Gala to fall 2026 at the brewery across the street.
Volunteer (Robbin Moore)
  • 31 volunteers contributed 412+ hours in September!
  • Planning the Volunteer Appreciation Party for Feb. 1 at Oak & Vine.

🏛️ Community & City News
  • Monroe will publish a citywide annual event calendar — MWCA dates will be included.
  • Fall Fest will remain the second Saturday in October; Car Show moves to the third Saturday in March.
  • Crepe Myrtle Festival will be replaced by a major America 250 celebration around July 4.
  • MWCA invited to continue fundraising on the Town Green at city events.

📋 Other Updates
  • Google for Nonprofits: MWCA account transition to current board members is underway.
  • Deep Cleaning Days and class deadlines noted for fall scheduling.

Next Board Meeting: Thursday, November 20 at 6:30 PM
]]><![CDATA[September 2025 board brief]]>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 18:06:51 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/board-briefs/september-2025-board-briefMWCA Board Meeting Highlights (annual planning meeting)
Date: September 18, 2025
Time: 5:00 p.m.
Vision: To create a transformational arts community that promotes Art for All by delivering the aesthetic and healing benefits of the arts.
Mission: To support local artists, writers, and musicians and create a thriving arts community through gallery shows, classes, workshops, events, and a local artist market — focusing on teaching, sharing, and caring.

Meeting Notes & a few highlights for our upcoming 1, 3,and 5 year plans
  • Finances: August showed a seasonal dip, but overall year-to-date revenue is up 19% over budget and 2024. MWCA remains financially stable with reserves equal to about eight months of expenses.
  • Education: Over 180 students served in August; special needs classes thriving; preschool program begins in October. New equipment purchased from fundraiser proceeds.
  • Gallery: Regional Juried Show featured 104 pieces; Christmas Show secured 30 applications. Future plans include stronger outreach and exploring a photography partnership.
  • Guild: Ongoing workshops, professional development opportunities, and plans for peer critiques, surveys, and a resource library.
  • Literary Arts: Book launches, weekly teen writing group, and plans for open mics and writing classes.
  • Membership & ArtMD: 322 active members; Zeffy system working well. Nearly 140 Art MD kits distributed in August. Future plans include a 12 Days of MWCA campaign.
  • Volunteers: 30 volunteers logged 359.5 hours in August, supporting events like BBQ fundraiser and Dino Day. Volunteer appreciation party scheduled for February 1, 2026.
  • Facility & Operations: Dehumidifier purchased and in use; deep cleaning days set for October 24–25.
  • Community Engagement: Ideas discussed for volunteer recruitment, new partnerships, and leveraging Google for Nonprofits.
Upcoming Dates
  • Volunteer Deep Cleaning Days: October 24–25
  • Annual Member Meeting & Afternoon Tea: December 7 at 2:00 p.m.
  • Volunteer Appreciation Party: February 1, 2026 at Oak & Vine
  • Chamber Training: “How to Be a Good Board Member” – January 8, 2026
]]><![CDATA[August board brief]]>Sun, 24 Aug 2025 19:51:14 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/board-briefs/august-board-briefOur board met this week and the energy is unstoppable — from new shows and classes, to fresh community partnerships, to nearly 500 volunteer hours logged in July alone.  Big plans are in motion for fall, the Christmas Tour of Homes, and our 2026 vision.

Our board met  August 21, 2025 to plan and review the exciting work happening at MWCA. Here are the highlights:
🎨 Gallery & Exhibits
  • Georgia on My Mind is currently on view, with the 2026 Gallery Show schedule now live on our website.
  • Angela Murphy’s exhibit at The Roe is up now.
  • The Regional Juried Show opens Sept. 17 with an Awards Reception on Sept. 27.
  • The Christmas Gift Show was highly competitive, with 30 applicants for 24 spots.
📚 Programs & Classes
  • A new class launched at Rust & Dust Antiques.
  • Our new Monday writing group Just Write has begun.
  • The Guild is planning workshops on photography (Sept.), preparing art for shows (Oct.), ornaments (Nov.), and possibly a holiday art exchange (Dec.).
🌟 Fundraising & Community
  • Amy Weems connected with new sponsors, represented MWCA at community events, and will appear on Atlanta Live (Oct. 16) to spotlight our work.
  • Planning is underway for the Christmas Tour of Homes (Dec. 13).
  • Rotary Club opportunities for membership and grants are being explored.
🤝 Membership & Volunteers
  • July welcomed 24 new and renewing members!
  • 498 volunteer hours were logged by 35 individuals in July — thank you!
  • Volunteers are lined up for our BBQ fundraiser, the Juried Show, Dino Day, and more.
  • A Volunteer Appreciation Party is set for Feb. 1, 2026 at Oak & Vine.
🏛️ Organizational Updates
  • Board notebooks with updated welcome materials and commitment agreements were distributed.
  • Strategic planning (1-, 3-, and 5-year goals) is scheduled for Sept. 18.
  • Planning underway for a fall Deep Cleaning Weekend (Oct. 24–25).
  • The board is also considering investing in dehumidifiers to protect artwork and improve building conditions.
We’re grateful for the dedication of our board, volunteers, members, and community partners who make all this possible. Stay tuned for more ways to get involved!]]><![CDATA[June 2025 Board Brief]]>Tue, 22 Jul 2025 01:01:56 GMThttps://www.monroewaltonarts.org/board-briefs/june-2025-board-briefMWCA Board Brief – July 17, 2025 (Concise Summary of board reports for JUNE)
In attendance: Juli Tredwell, President; Hope Reese, Director; Nancy Moate, Treasurer;
Marla Surette, Secretary; Barbara Barth, Literary Chair; Kamden Ecker, Membership
Chair; Donna Coffman, Education Chair; Amy Weems, Fundraising Chair; Jennifer
Dominy, Gallery Chair; Robbin Moore, Volunteer Chair; Tracey Williamson Davis, Guild
Chair.

We’re rolling through summer with energy and creativity at Monroe-Walton Center for the Arts! Here’s a quick look at what’s happening:
 Financial & Membership Highlights
  • Year-to-date revenue is up 27% 
  • 26 new/renewing members in June; 352 total active
  • New Sponsor: Taylor Made Smiles
  • Zeffy membership system is working beautifully — 13 auto-renewals already!
 Events & Programs
  • August 16: Save the date for our Teacher Demo Day & BBQ fundraiser and more.
  • September 13: Dino Day returns! 
  • Guild proposed an exciting yearlong calendar — now under board review.
  • Volunteers logged 459 hours in June — amazing!
  • Classes are going well, camps are mostly sold out, 216 students seved in June
 Gallery Updates
  • “A Day at the Beach” show had 115 entries and $1,084 in sales!
  • Regional Juried Show apps open through Aug 10
  • Upcoming: Georgia On My Mind, Christmas Gift Shop, Beyond the Gallery, and more
 New & Noteworthy
  • Kiln Angels donor program launching soon to support the pottery studio
  • First Friday concert concessions helping fund pottery needs
  • Full makeover of the website
  • Healing Arts Workshop in October
  • New writing group starts in August
  • New “Welcome to Walton” postcard and MWCA swag rolling out!
  • T-shirt design contest open until July 31 
 Community Connections
  • Social media, email, and video outreach growing strong
  • Website views and shop sales climbing
  • Outreach/involvement - Girl Scouts, Loganville Rotary, Chamber events, Non-profit group
  • Ongoing efforts to recognize donors and engage artists

 MWCA – Action Items & Important Dates Action Items
  •  Finalize jurors and high school scholarship form for Regional Show
  •  Add Kiln Angel info & donation link to website
  •  Approve Guild event schedule and pick fall kickoff event
  •  Promote last call for T-shirt design contest (ends July 31)
  •  Encourage consistent Zeffy use for staff processing memberships
  •  Launch "Welcome to Walton" postcard promo

 Key Dates
  •  July 31 – T-Shirt Design Contest deadline
  •  July 30 – Georgia On My Mind exhibit opens
  •  August 10 – Regional Juried Show applications due
  •  August 13–16 – Jury for Regional Show meets
  •  August 16 – Teacher Demo Day + BBQ Fundraiser
  •  August 20 – Christmas Gift Shop applications close
  •  September 13 – Dino Day / Kids' Art Day
  •  September 18 – Annual Planning Meeting 
  •  September 27 – Regional Show Awards Reception
  •  December 13 – Christmas Tour of Homes
  •  January – Volunteer & Patron Appreciation Party



]]>