PROGRAM DIRECTOR & MAKER EDUCATOR

Since joining Nova Labs in 2021, Amanda has shown her passion for community-centered design and innovation. With a Master's in Design for Emergent Futures and experience managing maker programs at George Mason University's MIX Makerspace, she encourages Critical Making, fostering a space where critical thinking and hands-on experimentation empower creative growth.

MAKER EDUCATOR - TEENS

Lee is a Virginia based artist who has always used artwork as a diary to record memories and emotions. Since 2014, their art has revolved around emotions. As Lee grew as an artist, they discovered a love for communicating complex emotions within simple linework.

MAKER EDUCATOR - K-6 Grades

Sora is an educator and technology enthusiast with a Master’s in Early Childhood Education from George Mason University. Her work combines a love for teaching with hands-on tech, using 3D printers, computers, and crafts to spark creativity and critical thinking in her students. Outside work, Sora enjoys 3D printing, archery, fishing, and hiking, and looks forward to building her own cabin to deepen her connection to nature and craftsmanship.

MAKER EDUCATOR - TEENS

Jill is an Industrial Design and Manufacturing Systems student at RIT, with interests in prototyping, woodworking, and musical instrument design. She has been working with Nova Labs & Makerschool for four years, and is also active in the makerspace and fabrication labs at her university.

MAKER EDUCATOR - TEENS

Patrick returned to his native Virginia after a 10-year stint on the west coast as a software engineer for tech companies such as Facebook and Lyft.

He works part-time at "The Shop", Arlington Public Library's makerspace, helping makers and artists bring their creations to life.

In his free time, he enjoys knitting and crochet, programming, movies, and video games.

MAKER EDUCATOR - TEENS

Jeremy Thomas Kunkel, an American sculptor, is known for his post-modern conceptual art using debris and discarded objects. His hybrid process blends conceptualization and making, evolving with the work's influences. Recently, Kunkel's art explores the intersection of society and nature, creating a dialogue about humanity and perceptions of reality. He also teaches foundations in sculpture and craft at George Mason University.

MAKER EDUCATOR - K-6 Grades

Rebagrace joined Nova Labs as an FRC robotics student in 2020 and served as mechanical lead for the last three years on the team. She is passionate about working with her hands, be it prototyping, mixed media art, machining, or sewing. When she is not at Nova Labs, you might find her ballroom and social dancing with friends, hiking, reading, creating, or playing games. She is eager to begin her studies in mechanical engineering this fall.

MAKER EDUCATOR - 4-6 Grades

Brazilian artist and educator Johab Silva, based in the Washington, D.C. area, holds degrees from Corcoran and Maine College of Art & Design. His work in new media explores environmental and community issues from urban development. Exhibited nationally and internationally, Silva's work has been shown at The Corcoran Gallery, Transformer Gallery, and ICA Portland, among others. His art is in private collections and has been reviewed by The Washington Post, BMoreArt, and PBS.