Staff

STAFF

Executive Director

As Executive Director and Cofounder, Elaine brings abundant energy and dedication to Womanspace. Her conscientious and sensitive personality makes her a welcoming, hospitable presence. Along with administering the business side of Womanspace, Elaine also uses her considerable talents facilitating some programs special to her, among them the Seekers Group. Occasionally, Elaine teaches or facilitates other programs at Womanspace and exhibits her artwork in New Dimensions Gallery. She works closely with the Building and Grounds Committee, as well as the Finance, Human Resources and Executive Committees of the Board of Directors.

Elaine received her degree in English from Alverno College. She pursued further studies in art and design at College of DuPage, Rockford College and Northern Illinois University. She is an active member of School Sisters of Saint Francis, an international community of religious women based in Milwaukee.

NICOLE LANDRETH

Co-Director & Director of Programs

Nicole earned her BA from University of IL Springfield in Psychology with a double minor in Visual Arts and Women/Gender Studies. She is a Rockford native, CAPA graduate from Auburn High School, and was a Resident Artist at 317 Art Collaborative for two years. Nicole is passionate about community engagement, creative collaboration, and fostering empowerment and agency among women and girls.

Nicole continues to be inspired by the supportive, loving, and welcoming relationships that develop at Womanspace. "The people are what make this place special and magical, and what inspires me to throw everything in my eclectic skill set at continuing the mission of Womanspace."

PAT LAI

Office Manager/Graphic Designer

As Graphic Designer/Office Coordinator, Pat brings to Womanspace her humor and professional expertise. She has over 35 years of graphic design and project management experience in industrial, service and consumer marketing communications. Pat holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Graphic Design and Printmaking from the University of Northern Iowa. She loves playing tennis, working out and biking…whenever Womanspace releases the chains!

CHERIE HECK

Bookkeeping/Creative Consultant

Cherie is a talented, longtime Womanspace member, teaches several classes here, has had her art in a number of exhibits, has been on a number of committees, is Chairperson of the Gallery committee, and is our Bookkeeper & Creative Consultant.

LIZ HIEMSTRA

Marketing & Development Director

As Marketing & Development Director, Liz utilizes her creativity and communication skills to spread the word about Womanspace and its many offerings, while cultivating relationships in the community to further support this wonderful organization. In her down time, you can find her wrangling her children (human, furry and feathered!), tending her own gardens and grounds and supporting her hometown community of Oregon through several volunteer initiatives.

MELODY PEARSON