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Board Members
Staff
  • Megan co-founded The Foundry and graduated from Barnard College with a degree in Environmental Policy. She has worked on green building construction sites nationwide and gained woodworking experience at the Yestermorrow Design/Build School. From 2011 to 2014, she ran a woodworking business in Buffalo and is dedicated to supporting women and people of color in non-traditional careers.

    Megan is involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, promoting mentorship. She has received several awards, including the Women Who Move the City Award and BizJournal's 30 Under 30 Award.

  • Tamara and her daughter were among the first tenants at The Foundry. With years of hard work, she helped her daughter create the million-dollar brand Zandra Beauty. They have been featured in prominent outlets, including Forbes, USA TODAY, and ESPN.

    As the founder of Raising A Mogul, Tamara supports parents in nurturing future leaders and entrepreneurs. She co-founded Legacy Brand Creators, a boutique brand development and marketing agency. A mother of five, she actively champions youth entrepreneurship programs.

  • Jennifer has over 25 years of experience in the non-profit sector, specializing in Community Relations, PR/Marketing, Fundraising/Development, Event Planning, and Volunteer Management. In her spare time, she volunteers on several boards, participates in community theater productions, and writes a blog called "All Things Jennifer."

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  • Drew joined The Foundry nearly two years ago as a volunteer and metal shop safety instructor to share his passion for metalworking, specifically welding and fabrication, with others eager to learn. In his ongoing pursuit of improving his craft and skills, Drew aims to create a space that fosters collaborative learning.

  • Aaron joins The Foundry after 15 years in television production and media communication. He brings his talent, skills, and creativity to help entrepreneurs/future business developers accomplish their goals. In his spare time, he enjoys going to the movie theater, enjoying art, and, of course, watching the Buffalo Bills!

  • Tyler is a youth development professional with training in trauma-informed practices and experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. He previously worked supporting students at Stanley G. Falk School.

  • El is a printmaker and graphic designer who continuously collects knowledge and uses art to connect with their community. As an advocate for social justice and inclusive art spaces, they strive to foster recognition at The Foundry that everyone has untapped creative potential. You can find their work outside The Foundry at mmdesign716.com.

  • Paul is a retired production manager with over 30 years of experience in the building trades, including carpentry and project management. He aims to live simply and sustainably while exploring topics like mysticism, mythology, and psychology.

    Passionate about nature, he creates hand-carved spoons and handmade chairs through green woodworking. Paul enjoys connecting with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds.

    Originally from Philadelphia, he has lived in Western New York for over 35 years. He has been volunteering at the Foundry since 2015. He looks forward to many more years of service.

Contract Instructors &
Volunteer Supervisors

Building + Garden Maintenance

  • Russ Reinagel

  • Kathy McNally (garden)

Contract Instructors/ Volunteer Supervisors

Youth Instructors:

  • Zandra Cunningham

  • Dezarayia Cunningham

  • Erik Walter

  • Mike Zak

  • Zari Fayson

Woodshop:

  • Mark Amman

  • Paul Borden

  • Eric Borenstein

  • Gary Buchholz

  • Elizabeth (Freed) Friedrich

  • Josh Meggesto

  • Russ Reinagel

Metalshop:

  • Chris Boyd

  • Drew Brotz

  • Matt Brumagin

  • Beth Juliar

  • Sam Wintermantel

Textile Lab:

  • Pat Beckerle

  • Kimberly Crosier

  • Sarah Johnson

  • Susan Koloski

  • Catherine Lochtefeld Sirianni

  • Midori Ohtake

  • Cheri Vogelbaum

Tech Lab:

  • Caine McDermott

  • El Mirabella

  • Jerry Mckeone

  • Erik Walter

  • Jason Zilbauer

  • Randy Zimmer

Creative Artisans:

  • Emma Brittain-Hardy