CHRISTOPHER FLYNN

Chief Operations Officer

Email: cflynn@makersparadise.org

Christopher Flynn, our Chief Operations Officer, brings decades of expertise in industrial and systems engineering and a wealth of experience from both public service and nonprofit leadership roles.

Professional Background:

• Possesses Bachelor of Science degrees in Industrial and Systems Engineering from Pennsylvania State University, earned in 1970, followed by a Master's degree from the same institution.

• Extensive career in public service, including roles within the Federal Civil Service and the San Francisco Bay Area Transit System.

• Transitioned into nonprofit leadership post-retirement, serving as President and CEO of Pacific Coast Community Services, a 501(c)3 organization that offers contracted administrative services to federal agencies.

• Under his leadership, Pacific Coast Community Services has become affiliated with SourceAmerica to advance the Federal AbilityOne program's objectives of employing individuals with disabilities.

Christopher's dedication to operational excellence and commitment to social impact have been instrumental in driving positive change within the public and nonprofit sectors.

For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please contact Christopher at cflynn@makersparadise.org.

TOM FRANCO

Community Engagement Director

Email: tfranco@makersparadise.org

Tom Franco, our Community Engagement Director, is not only an acclaimed American fine art sculptor and mixed media artist but also a passionate advocate for the arts and community development.

Background and Achievements:

• Born and raised in Palo Alto, California, Tom hails from a family that values and nurtures artistic expression. He is the brother of renowned actors James and Dave Franco.

• Tom pursued his artistic passion at UC Santa Cruz, where he obtained a degree as a sculpture major. He further honed his skills by graduating in ceramics at Oakland’s California College of the Arts.

• In 2004, he co-founded the Firehouse Art Collective, a dynamic initiative that has since expanded to six locations across Berkeley and Oakland. As the sole director, Tom oversees live artist studios and gallery spaces, fostering collaboration and facilitating the development of public art programs, housing initiatives, feature films, murals, and live art events.

• Tom is also actively engaged in art education, sharing his expertise and passion through speaking engagements and teaching opportunities at high schools, colleges, and community workshops.

• His artwork, showcased at the Firehouse and in various museums, exhibitions, and art fairs both in the United States and overseas, reflects his innovative approach and creative vision.

Tom Franco's dedication to promoting artistic expression and community engagement has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, inspiring and enriching lives through art.

For inquiries or collaborations, please reach out to Tom at tfranco@makersparadise.org.

SARA FRUCHT

Gallery Development Manager

Email: sfrucht@makersparadise.org

Sara Frucht, our Gallery Development Manager, brings a unique blend of artistic talent, technological expertise, and a passion for supporting fellow creators.

Background and Expertise:

• Originally from Huntington, New York, Sara is a versatile artist and maker proficient in various mediums, including drawing, painting, algorithmic computer animation, immersive art, and laser cut art.

• Sara pursued her academic journey at Yale University, graduating with a double major in Mathematics and Philosophy. This interdisciplinary background informs her creative process and lends a unique perspective to her work.

• With over 20 years of experience as a computer programmer, specializing in educational mathematics software, Sara combines her technical skills with her artistic sensibilities to push the boundaries of digital art and innovation.

• In her role as Gallery Development Manager, Sara oversees the day-to-day operations of the gallery, ensuring its smooth functioning while providing vital support to the artists and makers whose work graces its walls. She also curates and prepares content for our online marketplace, showcasing the diverse talents of our community.

Sara's dedication to fostering creativity and supporting emerging artists is evident in her multifaceted contributions to our gallery and online platform.

For inquiries regarding gallery operations or online marketplace content, please contact Sara at sfrucht@makersparadise.org.

HAMED MIRABDAL, M.B.A.

Marketing Director

Email: hmirabdal@makersparadise.org

Hamed Mirabdal, our Marketing Director, brings a wealth of diverse experiences and a deep passion for marketing and community engagement.

Background and Qualifications:

• Hamed's upbringing in the culturally rich Bay Area has instilled in him a deep appreciation for diversity, which reflects in his approach to marketing and collaboration.

• He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University East Bay, with a triple concentration in Human Resources Management, Corporate Management, and Economics. Additionally, he earned his MBA from Saint Mary’s College of California, specializing in Marketing Management and International Management.

• With a rich professional background, Hamed excels in developing comprehensive marketing plans, business strategies, and promotional materials. His expertise extends to market segmentation, website management, content creation, and fostering partnerships with community organizations, businesses, and vendors.

• Beyond his professional pursuits, Hamed enjoys immersing himself in various activities, including cheering on his local sports teams, exploring local and international destinations, indulging in museum visits, appreciating art, reading, connecting with nature, and indoor rock climbing.

Hamed's multifaceted interests and expertise make him a valuable asset to our team, driving innovative marketing strategies and fostering meaningful community connections.

For marketing inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to Hamed at hmirabdal@makersparadise.org.