Staff

2023-2024 Staff

Sascha Gordon, Instructor

"Ms. Sascha" is an Artist, Founder and Executive Director of Fine Art Starts. She has a BFA in Visual Art and a Master's Degree in Teaching. She has taught fine art to children and adults since 1997, and was one of three nominees for the 2021 Art Educator of the Year Award for the state of Oregon. Sascha teaches Art full time at Jesuit High School, directs Fine Art Starts, and is adjunct Faculty for George Fox University in the area of Art Pedagogy (teaching teachers how to teach Visual Art). She has a blended family of five children and loves making art in nature.

Nina Manning, Instructor

"Ms. Nina" grew up spending hours in the Fine Art Starts studio, attending years of art classes, has several years of assisting and teaching for Fine Art Starts at various schools, and is a Bachelor's candidate in her third year of college. She is studying animation and game design at Pacific Northwest College of Art. They enjoy making art and spending time with their two cats, Inky and Penny and their crested gecko named Barnaby.

Adam Strickler, Instructor

Adam is a husband and a father to 3 boys, one of which is a student at MITCH. He is an Artist who specializes in traditional media such as ink, paint and clay sculpture. He has 5 years of volunteer art instruction with elementary school-aged kids and is looking forward to a rewarding experience teaching with Fine Art Starts!

Studio Assistants

Sofia Lilah, Studio Classroom Assistant

Sofia Lilah is a Jesuit High School Senior and Art student, president of social justice union, and youth board member for Rose Haven. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, running, and spending time with her family, especially her siblings and dog, Yoshi. Sofia Lilah has been volunteering with Fine Arts Starts since January, 2023, is on summer Art Camp staff and loves listening to all the creative ideas the kids have.

Vicenzo, Studio Classroom Assistant

Vicenzo is a high school senior and Art student at Jesuit High School. He volunteers in the after-school program for Fine Art Starts during the school year, is on summer Art Camp staff, is a coach for children's sports, and is a pole vaulter. He enjoys working with kids and being in the outdoors.

Inclusion

Every child’s life and diverse experiences are respected. Our goal is to ensure that students are truly seen, valued and feel a sense of belonging and safety during times of creation and sharing.

Engaging Instruction

We place the best-matched instructor with the course being offered. Our instructors are valued for their artistry, experience and time.

Community

Students feel a sense of community during camp times, art shows and the support they receive from peers and leaders.

Find our Policies HERE.