Community
Volunteer Katherine Chan Helps The Crucible Run Smoothly
Cathy Niland | 05.25.2021Over the past year, Katherine Chan has been volunteering for The Crucible, supporting administrative efforts behind the scenes. Most of her volunteering has happened from home, but last week she joined us in the office for her first in-person shift.
“I like picking up specific skills,” she explained. “It’s helpful to get a chance to be in a different work environment. I have typically worked in male-dominated professions, so it was really refreshing to come in the office and see more inclusivity.”Some of Katherine Chan’s projects from Glass Flameworking I.
In exchange for donated hours, we offer volunteers class credits. But classes aren’t the only reason Katherine volunteers. During the pandemic, she’s been especially grateful for the connection to the Crucible community. “I have always known that The Crucible is a special place for learning fine and industrial arts, and as a volunteer, it’s been really great to be part of that broader community in a more rich way. It’s definitely been a rewarding experience.”
So far Katherine has put her accrued class credits toward our Teapot and Cups class where she designed a geometric blue and white ceramic set. But her favorite medium is glass. She’s taken Glass Flameworking I and II and has plans to tackle Hollow Vessels next. “It’s so great to be able to execute on more difficult projects,” she said.