NWS 2026 Board Members

PRESIDENT 

Judy Saltzman, FL       contact    website 

  The President serves as the organizational leader, implementing the goals and policies established by the Board of Directors. The President coordinates schedules with the Exhibition Director and, in collaboration with the Treasurer, assists in developing the Society’s budget. Above all, the President works collaboratively with the Board to support all members of the National Watercolor Society and advance its mission and commitment to excellence in watercolor.

VICE PRESIDENT - AWARDS DIRECTOR  

Carrie Waller, AR        contact    website

   The Vice President oversees committees and chairs various projects in support of the organization’s goals and serves in the President’s stead when needed. In addition, as Awards Director, the Vice President develops fundraising efforts and cultivates relationships with vendors who contribute to the International Exhibition, supporting both the awards program and the organization as a whole.

SECRETARY

Diane Chencharick, FL   contact    website

  The Secretary serves as both Recording and Corresponding Secretary for the Society. The Secretary attends all Board meetings and maintains accurate minutes of proceedings, preserves current governing documents and records, and serves as a resource to the Board regarding compliance with the Society’s by-laws and governing policies.

TREASURER

Phyliss Schmedake, CA

   The Treasurer assists the President in developing the Society’s budget, receives and deposits all Society funds, and provides monthly financial reports to the Board of Directors. The Treasurer also presents an annual financial summary to the membership at the Annual Business Meeting.

PAST PRESIDENT - INTERIM EXHIBITION DIRECTOR

Lorraine Watry, CO       contact    website    

   The Past President serves as an advisor to the Board of Directors, providing guidance and continuity based on prior leadership experience. In addition, as Interim International Exhibition Director, 

Director manages all aspects of the IOE, including planning, submissions, jurying, awards, and Signature Membership certification. This role involves coordinating with jurors, overseeing portfolio review for Signature status applicants, and ensuring clear communication with artists. 

Both Exhibition Directors lead their respective teams, coordinate with the Board and Awards, Web, and PR Directors, track entries and shipments, prepare certificates and labels, and assist with reception planning. Transparency, artist support, and collaboration across teams are central to both roles.

MEMBERS EXHIBITION DIRECTOR 

Cheri Keller, PA         contact     website  

   The Annual Members’ Online Exhibition Director oversees planning, entries, jurying, and awards for the Members’ Exhibition. This includes coordinating with the Board, managing artist submissions, assisting jurors, and ensuring smooth communication with members. 

Both Exhibition Directors lead their respective teams, coordinate with the Board and Awards, Web, and PR Directors, track entries and shipments, prepare certificates and labels, and assist with reception planning. Transparency, artist support, and collaboration across teams are central to both roles.

EDUCATION DIRECTOR

Bev Yankwitt, FL       contact     website

   The Education Director oversees the Society’s educational programs & special projects, including both online and in-person workshops. The Director develops and presents educational opportunities and initiatives to the Board for consideration, and coordinates programs that support artistic growth, member engagement, and public education. 

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Connie Hendrix, TX       contact

   The Membership Director oversees all aspects of membership, including dues collection, renewals, recruitment, and the maintenance of accurate membership records. In addition, the Membership Director supports Society activities through participation on the Exhibition Committee and the Watercolor Watercooler Team.

DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS

Will Bullas,  CA            contact         website

   The Director of Publications oversees the production and distribution of the Society’s newsletter, including the collection and editing of news and information of interest to members. The Director also manages the development and production of the Society’s annual exhibition catalog, coordinating content, design, and publication. This role plays an important part in communicating the Society’s activities and showcasing its exhibitions and artistic accomplishments.

BUILDING DIRECTOR  

Stephanie Goldman,  CA            contact         website

  The Building Director provides leadership and operational oversight for the effective management & maintenance of the Society’s facilities and building assets. The Director helps ensure the building remains safe, functional, well-maintained, & responsive to the evolving needs of the Society and its programs.

Stephanie Goldman is NWS President Emeritus 2022/2023

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS 

Jessica Lily, GA        contact         website

   The Director or Public Relations, manages all news, information and public relations materials distributed by NWS; oversees the organization's presence on social media platforms; and promotes the organization’s activities, exhibitions, educational programs, and initiatives to the public.  

WEB DIRECTOR

Greg Effinger, CO           contact    website

   The Web Director oversees the maintenance, functionality, and ongoing development of the Society’s website. The Director ensures website content remains current, addresses technical issues, and supports effective online communication and engagement for members and the public.