Staff

Katrina is a seasoned operations professional who joined VMOTA in November 2023. With a robust background in program administration, leadership, human resources, and operations, she previously excelled in a leadership position for an international border shelter, effectively managing a diverse team of over 100 employees. Additionally, Katrina has actively contributed to various non-profit organizations, ensuring the success of their fundraising galas through her adept programmatic and logistical coordination. Known for her skill in building long-term strategic partnerships, Katrina is recognized for her ability to connect with teams, volunteers, and supporters, fostering positive community impact and synergy. Katrina is a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) certified professional and has a Masters in Spiritual Formation and Soul Care. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys hunting for unique vintage pieces, participating in community events, and spending quality time with her husband, Corey, and their puppy, Kensie.

Formerly the Galleries Director of Baja Califonia Culture’s Institute and the Deputy Director of Exhibitions at the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT), Armando is an experienced and dedicated professional in the world of fine arts. After graduating with a degree in architecture from the Western Technological and Higher Studies Institute (ITESO) of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Armando founded and directed the Rio Rita Art Gallery and Cultural Association in addition to serving as the Deputy Director of the Municipal Institute of Art and Culture (IMAC) in Tijuana, BC. Armando joined VMOTA in November 2023.

Jill joined VMOTA in August of 2023, with a background spanning over eight years in administrative roles and two decades in customer service. Jill’s academic foundations began with her pursuit of a B.A. in Religious Studies, which led to an M.A. in Psychology with an emphasis on women’s spirituality and creative expression. Her quest to understand the convergence of spirituality, psychology, and creative expression led her to discover her true passion: fiber arts. From spinning intricate yarns, to crocheting, to weaving, Jill has found a canvas for self-expression in the tactile world of fiber arts. When not immersed in creative or professional pursuits, Jill finds joy in embarking on adventures with her son, immersing herself in the outdoors, and reading non-fiction. 

Forrest joined VMOTA in August of 2023, a storyteller at heart with a track record in the creative and small business landscape. Prior to working for the museum, Forrest co-founded of a technical interviewing startup and taught upper division courses for UCSD’s Biology Department. Leveraging his background in creative roles within San Diego’s biotech sector, Forrest is eager to use his experience in marketing, design, sales, and branding to support Visions and its team of skilled artists and enthusiasts. Beyond the professional sphere, Forrest enjoys reading, walks by the coast, and playing the guitar.

Maddy re-joined VMOTA in September of 2023 after spending a semester abroad in the UK at University of the Arts London. She first began her time at VMOTA in 2019 as an intern through San Diego Mesa College’s museum studies program, and she will be graduating from San Diego State University with a B.A. in Art History in December of 2023. Maddy is excited to be back at the museum and interacting with volunteers. Outside of the professional and academic worlds, Maddy enjoys creating mixed media artwork, trying new cooking and baking recipes, and spending time with her family.

Jane joined VMOTA in December 2021 after many years in two fields of design, theatrical set design and website development. Prior to working at the Museum, she launched The William & Ruby Hinson Photo Archive, a website developed to exhibit a personal collection of 1000+ slides, as well as sites for local artists and entrepreneurs, including textile artist Heather Urquhart. She has a B.A. in Philosophy & Mathematics from Yale University, an M.F.A. in Set Design from Virginia Tech, and Certifications I & II in Front End Web Design from San Diego College of Continuing Education.