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Leia Thompson Wood Joins the Staff of The Jacksonville Center

Leia Thompson Wood

Leia Thompson Wood has recently joined the staff as the Educational Programming Coordinator at The Jacksonville Center for the Arts in Floyd.  “Leia is an ideal successor to Amy with her teaching and administrative background both in nonprofit and the public school sector,” said John McEnhill, the center’s Executive Director.  “I have every confidence that Leia will continue to build upon the strong legacy in educational programming that Amy has left.”

Amy Avery-Grubel’s last day as Director of Educational Programming was Monday, June 11^th; she is now the manager of the Floyd EcoVillage. The Jacksonville Center has scheduled a going away potluck party on July 1 from 11am-1pm.  “We want to properly honor her significant contributions to the Jax and wish her well in her new position,” said John McEnhill.

Leia Thompson Wood is a new member to our arts community; however she is well versed in the business and creation of art.  She earned her M.Ed. from Capella University and her B.A in Art Education from Mercyhurst University.  Leia has taught art in public schools, in her private studio, and in community organizations; she also served on the boards of multiple arts organizations.  On The Berkeley Arts Council board, she held the Chair of the Art in Education Program position, and within ArtBerkeley, she served as the organization’s secretary and publicity chair.  Leia owned and operated a small art retail shop in downtown Martinsburg. In her own studio she works with many mediums to create artwork inspired by her family and her native state of New Hampshire.

“I am very excited to join The Jacksonville Center for the Arts,” said Leia. “I’m looking forward to working with the new art community.”

Those interested in volunteering with Leia in shaping the future of the educational programming at The Jacksonville Center can reach her at education@jacksonvillecenter.org or (540) 745-2784.