Staff & Board

Shelley Emslie

I have been in the world of education for over twenty-eight years. Based in Montana, I have dedicated my career shaping young minds in the classroom. I am a true believer in out-of-the-box teaching methodologies, and I continually experiments with a myriad of creative lesson plans to engage my students. I am an avid advocate for incorporating technology, 3D printing, and AI into teaching. Outside of the classroom, I pen children's books about my adorable Golden Retriever, Redgie, and design grief journals to guide people through the never ending journey of loss.

Jeanne Wendland

Jeanne is an artist, maker, and lifelong creative who calls Ferndale home, where she lives with her husband, teenage daughter, and two mischievous cats. Raised in Boise, Idaho, she has spent every summer since childhood at her family's cabin on Swan Lake, fostering a lifelong connection to the beauty and spirit of Northwestern Montana.

Creativity has always been woven into Jeanne's life. Inspired by two endlessly curious and creative parents, she grew up making things with her hands and developed a love for exploring new artistic mediums. Her home reflects that journey, filled with family-made treasures, pieces collected during meaningful travels, and artwork she has created herself.

Jeanne believes that art is for everyone. She finds just as much joy in helping others discover their own creativity as she does in creating herself. Whether working with beginners or experienced artists, children or adults, she strives to make every class welcoming, encouraging, and fun.

In Boise, she led workshops in a variety of mediums, including macramé, resin art, needle felting, stained glass, and more, and she looks forward to sharing that same spirit of creativity and accessibility with the Bigfork community.

When she's not teaching at the BACC or experimenting in her studio, you'll likely find Jeanne exploring the outdoors hiking, biking, paddling, and otherwise soaking in the natural beauty of this remarkable corner of Montana.

Cormac Moore

Cormac Moore is an experienced banking professional with a strong background in financial services, team leadership, and community engagement. Over his career in banking, he has developed expertise in operational management, lending services, and relationship building—skills that support clear decision‑making and strategic planning. His past experience as a real estate agent further broadened his understanding of local market dynamics, negotiation, and the economic forces that shape community development.

Cormac is passionate about supporting organizations that strengthen culture, creativity, and community connection. He is deeply aligned with the mission of the Bigfork Art & Cultural Center and brings a collaborative, grounded approach to board service. His blend of financial acumen and community‑minded perspective allows him to contribute meaningfully to organizational growth, outreach, and long‑term sustainability.

Outside of his professional life, Cormac values time with his wife and their two daughters. He enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and especially pursuing his passion for elk hunting. He brings a balanced, family‑centered outlook to every role he serves.

Rchard Janisse

Rick specializes in business development. 

He is President RMJ & Associates, LLC and resides in Bigfork MT

Email: rickjanisse@outlook.com

Nancy Kuhn

Nancy is a long time resident and former business owner here in Bigfork.  Nancy has been an integral part of BACC's success!  Her passion for community, the arts, and education is an inspiration to us all!

Giovanna Carlson

Giovanna comes to us from Vermont where her family's farm is located deep in the Green Mountain Range.  She received a full scholarship to attend the University of Vermont at Burlington.  While maintaining a full schedule of community art and dance therapy activities, Giovanna completed studies in dance, nutrition, and experiences in community leadership.  At BACC Giovanna will continue to assist in developing educational history and cultural arts programs which will now include dance and music.  Growing up in a community steeped in the value of heritage arts, Giovanna is excited to share and learn alongside Bigfork residents and visitors!

Email: giovannacarlson@baccbigfork.org