Staff & BOARD
Van wert live team
JARIN HART
Jarin Hart always knew she wanted a career in the music and live entertainment industry. Attending shows at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum and other venues in the area, she was enamored by the productions she saw. Going on to intern at a record label in Chicago, she came back to Fort Wayne where she served in leadership roles with the Fort Wayne Dance Collective and the Embassy Theatre, among others. Jarin brings her passion and experience to her role as Executive Director and continues to develop and grow Van Wert Live with diverse and inclusive programming and educational opportunities.
MICHAEL BRETT
Michael Brett has 20 years of experience in the industry. He has built a reputation for his expertise in stagecraft, lighting, sound and stage management. His knowledge of event production makes him a valuable addition to the Niswonger team, where he oversees the technical elements that help bring performances to life.
QUINCY THOMPSON
Quincy adds her own flare of fun to the Van Wert LIVE brand. She is a Van Wert native who is fully vested in impacting the community with the live performing arts. As the Marketing Director, Quincy manages communication touchpoints that share the good news of entertainment opportunities at Van Wert Live's venues. She also builds relationships and engagement opportunities for Members, Media Partners, Advertisers, and Patrons. If you've been to a Van Wert Live pre-show party, you've seen Quincy at work making SO GOOD experiences for all!
WESTON THOMPSON
Weston's position at Van Wert Live is a melding of his design skills and his passion for stage performance. He controls the visual touchpoints of Van Wert Live. The printed playbills, digital updates, playbills, signage and more all come from Weston's hand. He believes in the power of the performing arts to connect and heal. It can excite real positive progress for the community and the world, and Weston is on the scene to contribute.
MADDY BRONSON
Madison Bronson is a warm and welcoming presence that greets you at the Niswonger. As our Box Office Manager, she is passionate about creating exceptional experiences for every guest that steps through the lobby doors. With her skills and background put to use managing the Box Office, Maddy helps every visitor finds their perfect seat. Maddy’s commitment to excellence helps make every ticket buyer feel welcomed to the Niswonger.
DEB WALTZ
Deb Waltz, a retired IT Professional, brings tech experience to the Box Office and is excited to help bring live entertainment to Van Wert. She helps with ticketing, daily operations, and generally assists wherever she's needed. You can find Deb in the Box Office or Lobby on show nights, plus several days a week helping customers. Once she brought her dog in to help the staff de-stress during a busy week.
board of directors
The Van Wert Area Performing Arts Foundation is a 501©(3) non-profit organization. It is a supporting organization of The Van Wert County Foundation. It operates with its own board of directors representing the Van Wert City Schools and the Van Wert County Foundation. The VWAPAF presents arts and entertainment as Van Wert Live events to make Van Wert an entertainment destination.Â
BILL CLIFTON
VWAPAF CHAIRPERSON
MARK BAGLEY
VWAPAF VICE CHAIRPERSON
JENNIFER SLUSHER
VWAPAF SECRETARY
TROY BOWERSOCK
VWAPAF BOARD TREASURER
GREG BLACKMORE
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER
GARY CLAY
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER​
DOUG GROOMS
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER​
KEVIN LAING
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER​
MARY POPE
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER
AMANDA SHARMA
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER
GARY TAYLOR
VWAPAF BOARD MEMBER
