Ms. Brandy

Founder/Executive Director 

Brandace Cloud grew up in Staunton, Illinois, and graduated from Staunton High School. She has an Associate of Art degree in Graphic Design from Lewis & Clark Community College, a Bachelor of Art degree from Webster University, and attended post-graduate studies in the ceramics department at Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville. Brandace has worked as a self-employed ceramic artist, selling her wares at various art fairs and exhibitions, and she has years of experience as an art educator, teaching clay classes and workshops for children, adults, and various community organizations.

Brandace's father always told her to find a career doing something she loved, and she began her professional life trying to make a living as a graphic designer. During her undergraduate studies, though, she discovered that she much preferred the physicality of darkroom photography to working in front of a computer screen, and decided to focus on art as an end unto itself rather than a means of making money. Her last semester at Webster, Brandace fell in love with ceramics, digging up her own clay from the ground and turning it into usable objects through a long and painstaking process. She also grew to love the community aspects of art, how it brings people together in both a physical space and a shared passion. 

As Executive Director, Brandace is the key management leader of the MAC. The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the administration, programs, and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include fundraising, marketing, and community outreach. 

Ms. Marcella

Development Coordinator/Community Liaison 

Marcella Cloud lives in Sawyerville, Illinois, and has a Bachelor of Science in Nonprofit Management from Blackburn University in Carlinville, Illinois.

As Development Coordinator, Marcella is responsible for daily activities in support of the MAC's programs. The Development Coordinator maintains donor records, solicits donations, and prepares correspondences regarding the MAC and its programs. As community liaison, Marcella is also responsible for soliciting and managing volunteers, reaching out to and interacting with the community, and providing general support to the Executive Director.