Board Members

Cagney Archdeacon (President)

A president should lead by example, act with integrity and be engaged in every facet of the organization. I believe the president’s primary responsibility is to help create a welcoming environment where creativity can thrive—and to participate actively in the classes, workshops and events that define our community. Effective leadership also means knowing when to roll your sleeves up and when to delegate tasks to volunteers and Board members who have the right skillset. At a recent Board meeting, someone asked, “Are you a Doer, a Donor or a Door Opener?”, I’m proud to say I am all three—and my actions reflect that.

  • Volunteered as Santa for three years at the Holiday Craft Fair
  • Regularly attend monthly gallery openings—helping with set up and clean up
  • Personally replaced door handles to meet ADA guidelines
  • With my children, raked leaves and cleaned the grounds to reduce expenses
  • Spearheaded the annual Convergint Social Responsibility Day: for the past 3 years, I’ve organized a team of coworkers and friends to clean the entire property.
  • As Treasurer, worked alongside our President and bookkeeper to create a working Guild budget
  • Completed the 2025 LAP grant application and am preparing for 2026
  • Personally support Guild artists by purchasing artwork
  • My entire family participates in a wide variety of classes
  • Taught Ms. Alison’s children’s class when she was unavailable
  • Monitor Tuesday night Figure Drawing and the Plein Air Group
  • Judged Ocean County’s senior art show which was held at TRAC

In my prior professional role, I managed 30-60 direct reports and a $6.5 million P&L. I successfully shifted a team culture toward mutual respect, inclusion and innovation—improving morale and profitability. I accomplished this by listening, encouraging creative solutions, increasing operational efficiency and most importantly, leading by example. I now bring those same skills to the Guild.

I will focus on:

  • Strengthing community outreach and nonprofit partnerships
  • Expanding classes and workshops, reaching new audiences of all ages
  • Enhancing our digital presence and advertising to better promote events
  • Prioritizing grants, fundraising and revenue for long-term financial stability
  • Investing in house repairs and grounds upkeep, preserving the beauty of our historic building.

The Ocean County Artists’ Guild is a special place. I’m committed to honoring its legacy while helping it grow for our future—and I hope to serve as your next president.

Sally Cornelison (Vice President)

Hi, my name is Sally Cornelison. I have lived in NJ since 1985 on Vaughn Ave. When my son was in High School I wandered into an Opening at the Guild and discovered Art and a nice little reception! Soon, I made a point of coming to Openings on the first Sunday of the month! Joining came next and I became a “sitter.” Then I joined the Gallery Committee. Shirly McQuier was running the Committee and they asked if I would like to head the Committee – my deer in the headlights answer was no! However, Betty Van Stratton said that she would co-chair, so I was convinced! That was in the early 2000’s & I have been a member ever since.
 
I love the Guild and am willing to work and volunteer for her! Our Victorian lady is an important part of Ocean County and Island Heights culture. We try to reach far and wide and enrich as many as possible. We love being a part of Ocean County culture and environment. My function on the Board as a trustee involves helping where I can, volunteering and working on committees, attending events and meeting people. I am also a past chair of the Gallery Committee and still a member.
 

Amanda Donovan (Corresponding Secretary)

Amanda Donovan is an accomplished marketing and business development professional with a strong background in communications, project management, and corporate social responsibility. Currently an Associate at an international engineering consultancy firm, she spearheads marketing and business development initiatives across the Eastern United States, while supporting contract and project administration for public agency clients. A skilled storyteller and strategist, Amanda excels at translating complex projects into compelling narratives that engage stakeholders, elevate brands, and drive meaningful impact.

Beyond her corporate work, Amanda is deeply passionate about the arts and historic building preservation. She believes in the power of storytelling through architecture and is committed to advocating for the conservation of cultural and historic spaces. Whether supporting restoration projects or engaging with artistic communities, she strives to highlight the significance of preserving the past while embracing the future.

She is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of OCAG’s weekly newsletter, “This Week at the Guild” and manages the Guild’s media.

Gianna Masi (Recording Secretary)

As a fine arts major, studio assistant, and Art Club advisor at Ocean County College, I am beyond artistically passionate and have been avidly creating my entire life. My work emphasizes the differently-abled and self-exploration—investigating for my awareness, while urging others to look closer at life’s affairs. I aspire to become a fine arts professor and help others thrive in their artistic passion. I am a very new member of the Ocean County Artists’ Guild, and am excited to learn more about the community and eventually teach classes. I can only strive to help the Guild continue to grow and bring new communities within it to participate in its incredible endeavors and invite more people to grow artistically, interpersonally, and socially.”

Susan Mauro (Membership Secretary)

Good at reviewing, analyzing, assessing situations… developing solutions/solution-oriented.
View challenges as exciting—often lead to opportunities, unknown at first.
Positive/optimistic, passionate. Deep dive into details.
Thoughtful/inquisitive.
Open-minded/objective.
Freelance art director/graphic designer, NYC 1980s.
Business owner/partner: creative agency (Princeton area) 20+ yrs.
Creative director/visual communications, thereafter until present. Although I’m winding my business down,
thankful for the various pro bono projects that keep me happy and busy.

Early years: approached in 4th grade to be the schools’ “bulletin board artist/keeper”. Began sewing a good amount of my wardrobe mid-later teens. Hand made silk-screen frames in later teens—designing/selling posters to local businesses. Designed, wired and sold lamps, and painted lampshades. Enjoyed line art and watercolor; B+W photographic print-making; pottery; crocheting. Stage set design for neighbors’ dance studio in my early 20s, may have played a role in designing large-scale environmental graphics, branding, animation, presentations throughout career. Hands-on home renovations, furniture building and refinishing, cooking—art/creative has been at the forefront of everyday life.

My life is enhanced with hands-on learning, attending classes, reading, and enjoyment of: art, building, music, nature, humor. Work hard, play fair, have fun—enjoy what life offers.

Personal notes:
My oldest daughter, also a creative professional among many talents, reintroduced me to lino-cut; and youngest daughter more of nature, simplicity—both steadfast creative with a zest for life. We are all proponents of justice, fairness and humanity. My husband (animator, musician, quiet giant) showed me the rhythm and quality of life, who was taken way too early. I enjoy many aspects of what the Guild has to offer.

Trustees

Danielle Archdeacon

I have served on the Board of OCAG for one year and would like to do so for a few more years.  OCAG is a magical place where creatives meet, share ideas, teach/take classes and share their love of the arts.  I currently hold the position of Executive Director where I ensure that the Guild runs smoothly and community outreach is a priority.  Being on a board means engagement within the organization you represent and I believe I have accomplished that in one short year.  We are now hanging artwork at Garden State distillery, forging an ongoing partnership with TRAC, an addition to Acoustic Musician Guild I have peppered in more music monthly and continue to work getting more musicians, facilitated Boozy Bingo fundraiser, partnering with Toms River schools where we acquired Youth Art Month for all TR High Schools and Intermediate Schools and they are on the calendar for next March as well and started youth photography program with Julie Fallon.  I also support our artists by purchasing their beautiful art as well as take classes and workshops that are offered.  I am working on a few more partnerships that would be beneficial to our Victorian Lady.

Contact Danielle at info@ocartistsguild.org or at 732-270-3111.

 

Sue Clayton

I’m a retired Developmental Psychologist who worked for NJ public school districts as a School Counselor and Social Worker and as the Director of Student Personnel Services and Child Study Teams.  I also served in County Head Start and Early Head Start programs as a Mental Health and Disability Consultant.  I had a private practice working with families that included children with disabilities and special needs.  As an educator, my research focused on how engagement in the arts could benefit children with learning challenges in the academic setting; as well as how educators of the arts could be instrumental in how their modalities could positively influence a child’s development and social skill interactions with same age peers.

As a youngster, I was involved with the Performing Arts program in the public school system.  I loved drawing and creating and doing things with my hands (painting, crocheting, pottery, sewing), as well as dramatic readings.  I frequently designed and made my own clothes while in high school and was awarded a stipend to attend FIT in Manhattan by the Betty Crocker Foundation (which I declined, sadly).  I enjoyed painting in acrylic and oils while in school, and had some of my work exhibited in the Newark City Hall.  To this day, I keep in touch with my art teacher from high school.  Currently, I enjoy working with fiber arts.  I am learning to spin alpaca and wool from the fleece since Covid.  I have woven several blankets, rugs and towels, experimented with “plarn” (making yarn out of plastic bags), and even wove a tote bag out it. I also have done needle felting pieces for still life and landscapes; as well as wet felting scarves and wraps.  It’s still a process, but I find it very relaxing and frustrating all at the same time. I’m getting better with each spin.

I have also been very engaged in music.  I studied piano as a child and participated in many choruses and choirs over the years.  I have been a member of church choirs and the Ocean County College Community Chorus until it was ended years ago.  My late husband Doug Clayton, was a music educator and professional singer with many prominent performing arts organizations, including the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Philly Pops, and most recently the Andrea Bocelli east coast tour productions.  As a result of this constant musical immersion, I studied cello performance as an adult and continue to play with two semi-professional orchestras in Philadelphia.  In addition to the Lansdowne Symphony Orchestra and the Lower Merion Symphony; I have performed with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra Academy each summer since 2009, as well as with Symphonic Holiday Orchestras in Sicily and Orvieto Italy (next year in France).
 
I am very grateful to have found the Ocean County Artist Guild as a place to practice my art and find joy.  I have taken classes with Kim, with Joe Rogine, and with Leona.  I have learned so many interesting things from those lessons; with Joe’s intensity and push to really “look”, and Leona’s always present optimism and willingness to demonstrate and help.  My skills have broadened immensely, but more importantly my passion for expression and channeling energy into my art work has really bloomed.  I have been thrilled to be a part of the Joyful Arts Collective with Leona and Suzanne and Frances.  So far, we have had a few classes and have received positive feedback from the participants.  The guild has become a safe and fun space to be myself and to build relationships and connections to others in the area.  It’s an important and precious beacon in our community, particularly during these difficult times.  I hope that I can be helpful in securing OCAG’s presence for more years to come.
 
Ydes Fastag
What can I bring to OCAG? My experience of over twenty five years in Education is something that I willingly share with the OCAG educators. The Teaching Artists Community has a collective wealth of creativity and innovation. My vision for this community is to create a shared vision of successful education practices that will move our Arts organization to new levels of achievement.
 
In the past two years we have met as teachers/artists to learn about the importance of the teaching artists at OCAG. We discussed issues that are important to the teaching staff and how to improve these. We also discussed how each bit of information from attendance records to surveys impacts our organization as a whole.
 
Our Teaching Artists are the core of our organization. They are the ones who connect with students and keep them coming back. They are the ones who attract students with innovative course offerings and bring new students. Our teachers deserve to have Professional Development that nurtures their creativity and allows them to be active participants in the future of OCAG. I look forward to continuing my work with these wonderful Teaching Artists.
 
Diane Israel
Diane E Israel, an artist known for her captivating miniature watercolors, has dedicated over five decades to the world of art. As a former gallery owner of Essex Fine Arts Gallery in Montclair, New Jersey, she cultivated her passion for providing a platform to fellow artists and nurturing artistic talent. Diane’s expertise extends beyond miniature watercolors; she is also skilled in photography, graphic design, and calligraphy. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Diane is a passionate educator. As a certified art teacher K-12, she has instilled a love for art in her students. Diane teaches throughout the New Jersey / New York state area at Wallkill River Art Center in Montgomery NY, South Orange/Maplewood Adult school and the Ocean County Artists Guild in Island Heights. Notably, Diane has also contributed her expertise to the Israel Crane House and Historic YWCA in Montclair, NJ, where she served as a docent, managed the gift shop, and conducted watercolor
classes highlighting the native flora of New Jersey.
 
Diane’s involvement in various organizations further exemplifies her dedication to the art community. As a member of the International Guild of Miniature Artisans (IGMA), the National Association of Miniature Enthusiasts (NAME), and the Miniature Art Society of Florida (MASF), she actively participates in exhibitions, workshops, and events that promote and celebrate the art of miniatures. Her artistic excellence has been recognized with accolades, including a second-place award in the Florals and Botanicals category at the 2025
Annual Miniature Show of the Miniature Society of Florida.
 
Diane Israel is a dedicated member of the Ocean County arts community. Currently, she serves as a teacher and trustee at the Ocean County Artists Guild for the 2025/2026 term. Additionally, Ms. Israel is the program co-chair of the Lacey Historical Society in Forked River. As one of the founding members of the new arts initiative in Lacey Township, ACLNJ (Arts Community of Lacey NJ), Diane will be teaching at various local community venues throughout the year.
In addition to her traditional artistic engagements, Diane embraces the digital realm, maintaining an active presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Through these channels, she shares her artistic journey, insights, and creations with a wider audience, further contributing to the promotion and appreciation of art.
 
 
Scott Oldt

I’m a dedicated sales leader in the corporate world and co-owner of Cozy Cove Marina, one of our local marina’s here in Island Heights. I live here with my wife, Melinda, and our two children, Bennett, an energetic 8-year-old boy, and Olive, a curious 5-year-old girl. I’ve always had a love for drawing and doodling however after a watercolor class in 2022 I got struck with the “bug” for the medium and its quickly become one of my biggest passions. While my professional life thrives in the world of sales and marina ownership, my creative spirit shines through in my passion for watercolor painting. Inspired by the sights and sounds of the Toms River, I do my best to capture the fluid beauty and majestic movements of the water and sails, using my art to reflect the tranquility and energy of the river. Whether balancing the demands of my business or embracing my artistic side, I’m constantly inspired by the world around me, finding joy in both family and creative expression.

Suzanne Pulver

I have been a member of the guild for 8 years and have enjoyed all the opportunities for creativity that it has provided. It is my desire to see the Guild flourish and I hope I can be instrumental in doing so. I have been taking classes also since that time with Leona, Kim and Joe.
I have background in Art Education. I have been instrumental in forming the Joyful Art Collective under the leadership of Leona Lavone. It gives me joy at the end of each workshop when I hear how much it was appreciated. I’m also one of the first members of the Art Book Club created by Kim Cesaretti.
 
 

Corey Ann Roberts
I’m a life long resident of Ocean County with a deep appreciation for the arts. Art has played a major role throughout my life. I loved drawing as a child and enjoyed trying various mediums during my adolescence into adulthood. While attending college I was a member of the Art Club and editor for the Literary & Art Magazine. I  decided to join OCAG after taking a class earlier this year. OCAG offers a community and environment for creatives to gather, connect, and have fun. I would love the opportunity to help the guild further their mission and vision by growing our community and fostering a place of creative expression and learning, while preserving a piece of local history.