Meet Our Board

Alyce Obee – President
For Alyce Obee, Canal Creative has always been about people. She believes that everyone deserves a place where they feel welcomed, valued, and connected, and that simple moments of gathering together can have a lasting impact on a community. As Board President, Alyce leads with a servant's heart and a deep passion for creating spaces where friendships are formed, creativity is celebrated, and no one feels alone.

Alongside her husband, Jamie, Alyce has poured countless hours into bringing the vision of Canal Creative to life. What began as a dream to create meaningful connections has grown into a place where people can come together through art, shared experiences, and community.   She finds joy in watching strangers become friends,  ideas become reality,  and individuals discover that they truly belong.

Alyce's leadership is rooted in kindness, inclusion, and the belief that life is better when we create it together. Through her dedication and vision, she continues to help cultivate a community where people are seen, supported, and inspired to connect with one another. Alyce Obee serves as President of the Board for Canal Creative and is passionate about gathering community in welcoming spaces where no one is left out and something beautiful is created together.

Michael Evans- Secretary

Michael Evans believes that strong communities are built when people come together, support one another, and make space for meaningful connections. With 20 years of experience in advocacy and policy work and service on multiple nonprofit boards, Michael brings a deep commitment to strengthening communities and advancing missions that make a meaningful difference. As Secretary of the Board, he helps support the vision and mission of Canal Creative, contributing to the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the organization moving forward.

Fellowship is a core value Michael shares with Canal Creative and a key reason he is drawn to its mission. He believes that creating opportunities for people to connect, build relationships, and experience a genuine sense of belonging is essential to strong, vibrant communities. Through his board service, Michael is proud to help advance Canal Creative’s mission to overcome loneliness and create community, because life is better together.

Josh Barnes – Treasurer
As Treasurer of the Board, Josh brings a servant's heart and a deep commitment to making sure everyone feels included. He has been a faithful friend through the challenges of remodeling and the countless behind-the-scenes tasks that keep Canal Creative running, often doing the work no one sees—from maintaining the grounds to lending a hand wherever needed. His steady presence, generosity, and dedication continue to help make Canal Creative a welcoming place for all. 

Jennifer Mendoza - Marketing
"I’m passionate about Canal Creative because I believe deeply in our mission: bringing people together so no one has to navigate life feeling alone.   Community is powerful, and when we gather with intention, connection becomes possible. As the Pilates Fusion instructor here, I get to pour into the women and moms of our community — creating a space where they feel strong, supported, and seen. Being involved with Canal Creative lets me help build the kind of belonging every person deserves"

Sammie Pennington – Events
Sammie serves on our Board and leads the Events Committee with creativity, enthusiasm, and a heart for bringing people together. From helping make our annual fundraiser a success to creating memorable moments at our Halloween celebration, she has been a driving force behind many of the experiences that make Canal Creative special. Her energy, dedication, and willingness to jump in wherever needed have made her an invaluable part of our team, and we are grateful for the joy and connection she helps create for our community.

Beth Horsfall –  Outreach & Partnerships
Beth is a dynamic community-builder, momma of four, always on the move creative, who is fueled with purpose. A talented stained glass artist, she's passionate about creating spaces where people feel seen, welcomed, and inspired. Be sure to check out her upcoming classes with Flow and Glow.

Michele Vick - Rentals
I believe we all are looking to belong to something ,to feel a connection, be seen and valued.  That is why I joined Canal Creative. I went to build a community where people know that they are not alone, where everybody has a place to belong.

Jordan Richmond - Finance & Budget:

Jordan is involved with Canal Creative because she loves creating a space where people feel welcomed and valued. As a local public accountant, she enjoys using her financial experience to support the organization behind the scenes and contribute to its growth. She is excited to be part of something that brings people together and adds something unique right here in Canal Fulton.