The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art’s mission is to provide arts education, create unique experiences, and to promote emerging artists. But we don’t do it alone. AKMA members and volunteers are part of a vibrant community of people who recognize the importance of a community-centered arts organization in our lives.
This month, we are recognizing the AKMA members and volunteers who have stepped up to go further…to be part of a vibrant community of people who recognize the importance of a community-centered arts organization in our lives.
Meet Seth Slayden
How long have you been involved at the museum?
I first volunteered with AKMA by serving on the Building & Grounds Committee in 2018. A few months later I was elected to fill a vacancy on the Board, and have continued to serve AKMA in that role.
Why did you initially get involved with the Board of Directors?
I was approached by a former Board member, Sarah Meierhoffer, and asked to consider joining the Board. The President at the time was Jere Loyd, whose term was set to expire. He was the only attorney on the Board, and so I was asked in order to ensure there was someone on the Board with legal experience. I considered it a tremendous honor to be trusted to give sound, practical legal advice to such an important museum and institution.
What is a favorite memory you have here?
Is it okay to pick something in the future, knowing it WILL be your favorite memory? The driveway opening and installation of Heliko is a goal many of us have worked toward for several years. In addition to the practical benefits it will provide, I believe it represents the culmination of hard-work many people have put in behind-the-scenes that often go unnoticed. I am proud of our staff, members, donors, volunteers, and Board for their tireless efforts in making this dream a reality.
[AKMA staff] are not just employees; they sincerely believe in the mission of AKMA and are committed to sharing the rich collection AKMA has to offer our community.
Seth Slayden
Who has made the most impact on you at the AKMA?
I am incredibly proud of our staff. Specifically, Megan Benitz and Alex Asher have often been the glue that held AKMA together in good times and bad. They are not just employees; they sincerely believe in the mission of AKMA and are committed to sharing the rich collection AKMA has to offer our community.
I also want to acknowledge our Executive Director, Eric Fuson. His hire has brought a sense of positivity and enthusiasm AKMA needed. As someone who frequently works with executive directors, presidents, and other executives, I can say without a doubt that Eric is one of the best.
Finally, I would like to thank all of my fellow Board members, but specifically Marcy George, Drew Brown, and (former Board member & current Building & Grounds chair) Dr. Sharon Kosek, all of whom have been Board members since I joined AKMA. The dedication of these individuals to AKMA (and the community as a whole) is inspiring. They have made me a better Board member.
Thank you, Seth!
Seth is an attorney with Murphy, Taylor, Siemens & Elliott P.C., and has worked there since May 2014. He has lived in St. Joseph since 2015 and is married to Jonht. Together they have one fur-baby, KC, a golden retriever. They attend church at McCarthy Baptist. In their free time, they enjoy planning their next vacation – Hawaii and Colorado are two of their favorite places to visit.
See yourself here
AKMA members and volunteers are teachers, students, parents, business owners, artists, non-artists, entrepreneurs, employees, builders, adventurers, and –most importantly–supporters of our mission to educate the public, provide access to unique and meaningful experiences, and nurture emerging artists. Go further with us by becoming a member. If you’re already a member, consider going further to the next membership level.