STaFF
Board of directors
Jennifer Jacquot-DeVries, Executive Director
Jennifer Jacquot-DeVries joined the staff of The Crossing Arts in July 2023, bringing an MFA in Creative Writing, 18 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, and deep personal connections to the arts. Previously, Jennifer was the Development Director for a national voting rights organization and has worked locally with Tri-County Community Action Partnership, Crow Wing Food Co-op, and the Rural Renewable Energy Alliance. The work of program development, assessing needs and opportunities, and bringing creative ideas to fruition is a skill that fuels her work with The Crossing Arts Alliance. Jennifer resides in the Brainerd area with her spouse, daughter, and two rescue dogs. When she’s not working, Jennifer is hiking, gardening, traveling, and enjoying the beautiful lakes, woods, galleries, museums, and art studios of Minnesota and beyond.
Heather Friemann, Youth Education Manager
Amber Maki, Program Manager
Amber Maki joined The Crossing Arts Alliance in 2025, bringing a strong blend of creative skill and community‑focused energy. A Twin Cities native and a 2010 MCAD graduate with a BFA in Animation, her background spans 2D animation, illustration, drawing, and multiple painting mediums. She now applies these experiences to supporting artists, coordinating programs, and enhancing the gallery and gift shop of The Crossing Arts. Outside of work, Amber enjoys spending time with her boyfriend and their cat, Penny, gardening, painting, reading, and exploring the woods and lakes that define the region.
Sara Vacinek - President
Suzanne Ressemann - Vice President
Jennifer Fryer - Treasurer
Jerowen Paine - Secretary
Molly Mae Krautkremer
Mark Smith
Interested in joining the Board?
Please complete this application and email it to boardpresident@crossingarts.org.