Meet our Board of Directors and staff

 
 

sarah scaife, president

The James is important to me because it helps bring art and education to our community, while preserving a piece of Williams County history. As a mother of two young children, I have found that these are the principles (art and education) that help nurture growth and give opportunities for play to our next generation.

I want to help make The James Memorial a place to learn, play, and connect in the community.

 
 
 
 

vice president, currently open

 

dr.victoria arneson, Treasurer

The James is so much more than art classes. It is a community center and safe space for art, culture and education. I love all the amazing things the James does in our community and am so grateful to be a part of the board.

 

alma cook, Secretary

Is there anything more beautiful than a historic building? In one of the fastest-growing and fastest-changing towns in America, the James Memorial reminds us of our roots. Beyond its appeal as a gorgeous venue for hosting everything from children's birthday parties to fine dining fundraisers, the center is well-positioned to be a cultural magnet in the Bakken and a leading driver of community engagement in all types of fine art. 

I especially love that the James is open to all ages. As a local singer-songwriter, I've noticed a real lack of performance opportunities for young musicians, since most local venues cater only to those 21 and over. Young people are lucky to have a space like the James where they can experiment, get loud, and hone their craft!

 
 

monica tininenko-reuter, board member

The James has been a love of mine since 2013. The Board of Directors was so helpful and welcoming at my first exhibit it felt like a great place to build lasting relationships. This place is a wonderful combination of my two passions, historic building preservation and sharing art! 

 
 

terry arneson, board member

I want to make our community a better place to live in, and most importantly, I want our community to have opportunities for exposure to art and culture like more urban areas do.

 
 

jim purkey, board member

The James Memorial Art Center is a piece of architectural history, and it should be preserved and maintained for future generations to visit and enjoy while educating and promoting the arts in our Community.  I have worked a number of years in the field of Archaeology, and over the last few years working in the field of Education.  Along with our two dogs, my youngest daughter, my wife, and I have made Williston our home for the last 12+ years.

 
 

nikki wright, board member

 
 

antoine wright, board member

 
 
 

pam elliott, administrative assistant

The James has such a great story! I love everything about this beautiful building….it’s history, it’s purpose, and the people I get to know and visit with when they stop in. Here, several of my favorite things are wrapped up in a neat little bow: love of art, history, people, and nonprofits!

 
 

Interested in Serving on the Board of Directors? Click on the button and submit your info!