Executive Director of Development
Tile Heritage Foundation
Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
My professional journey in the tile industry began over three decades ago in a two-stall garage in Ann Arbor, Michigan. At the time, I knew very little about tile history or the industry at large; all I knew was that clay felt good in my hands and that I wanted to create something beautiful.
When I met Joe Taylor and Sheila Menzies, the founders of the Tile Heritage Foundation, I was introduced to a vast world of tile I hadn’t known existed. Attending my first Tile Heritage symposium was the "Big Bang" moment of my tile life. Through their mentorship and efforts, I secured its first showroom client, setting me on the path I still follow today.
I helped grow that garage startup into Motawi Tileworks, which became a renowned manufacturer of Arts and Crafts style tile. After an 18-year tenure there, I joined Los Angeles-based Wizard Enterprise. Over the next 14 years, I focused on developing robust showroom sales networks and designing innovative production management systems. Most recently, as the National Sales Director for ALVA Surfaces, I worked to transform sales networks into integrated manufacturing and distribution hubs for fine art tile and hand-carved stone.
Throughout these three decades—making, selling, collecting, and teaching—I have carried the passion for all forms of tile (historic, art, handmade, and mosaic) that Joe and Sheila first shared with me.
This is why, when the opportunity arose to join the Tile Heritage Foundation as the Executive Director of Development, I knew it was the perfect role for me. I have come full circle, returning to the organization that gave me my start. It is now my time to further the Foundation's mission: to preserve tile history, protect important installations, and promote the art of tilemaking for the future.
Get Inspired and Turbocharge Your Business
Monday, March 30, 2026
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM PDT