Volunteers Make a Difference!
BECOME A VOLUNTEER!
If you would like to join our museum family, just stop in or give us a call (330-386-6001).
We will find a project for you that fits your interests and abilities.
Volunteer of the Year
Each year, the staff of the Museum of Ceramics, selects a volunteer to honor for their contributions.
The honoree is awarded a commemorative plate, decorated in gold and donated
by the Fiesta Tableware Company (formerly Homer Laughlin China).
Occasion Nation
Volunteer of the Year, 2022
The Museum of Ceramics announced Robert Bailey and Richard Walker as recipients of the “Volunteer of the Year, 2022” award. They are co-owners of Occasion Nation, a veteran owned entertainment and production company providing audio, lighting, and media for a variety of events. Over the past two years, they have provided colorful, music-driven lighting on the Museum’s building for events such as First Fridays and the all-class reunion. They volunteered their time, and the service was free to MoC as well. For more information about Occasion Nation, see their website at occasionnation.com.
Sheri Liebschner, winner of the 2021 award for Volunteer of the Year, met with Robert and Richard to present them with a gold decorated plate created by the Fiesta Tableware Company.
Sheri Liebschner
Volunteer of the Year, 2021
Sheri was selected by the Museum of Ceramics staff as the Volunteer of the Year for 2021. Her contributions to the museum include teaching in the Art@theMoC series and the Inspiration Series. She is a member of the Lady Slippers, a group of artists and museum supporters. She organized and hosted an opening for a Student Art Show and coordinated “Local Connections,” a 2021 art show featuring Betsy Babb, Barrie Archer, and Nancy Hawkins. Sheri has hosted artists from the Ohio Plein Air Society and the Eastern Ohio Plein Air Society for a day of painting East Liverpool on three separate occasions. MoC staff members value Sheri for her enthusiasm, skill, and friendship.
Sherie studied painting and drawing at Miami University and the University of Akron School of Arts. She continues to study with Christopher Leeper and at the Butler Institute of American Art where she also volunteers.
Karen Russo, VOTY for 2020, presents Sheri with a commemorative plate made by the Fiesta Tableware Company.
Karen has been a volunteer for many years but has recently assumed greater responsibilities. Her contributions include leading tours, working the Clay Shop (gift shop), doing research, organizing archival materials, assisting with exhibits, and hosting events.
Karen is a retired school teacher/librarian from the East Liverpool and Poland schools. She and her husband Merle Russo have one daughter, Heather Russo Morris, and three grandchildren. She has volunteered for FISH, Beaver Creek Horsemen, and Beaver Creek State Park and Pioneer Village. She is a member of Holy Trinity Church at St. Aloysius.
Thank you Karen for all you do!
Karen Russo
2020 Volunteer of the Year
Barrie’s services to the Museum of Ceramics extends over many years. As the “Clay Artist” in residence she has taught many classes on throwing and handbuilding. She is part of the adminstrative team that helps to plan the classes and events for MoC. She is also a member of the Lady Slippers and participates in, and usually organizes, their activities.
Barrie’s good nature and wit, willingness to help, and creativity has made her a valuable asset to the Museum.
Barrie Smith Archer
2019 Volunteer of the Year
Polly Bonner
2018 Volunteer of the Year
Polly Bonner was recognized in 2018 for her contributions including processing archival materials, assisting researchers, helping with children’s events and tours, and pitching in wherever she is needed. Polly is a regular at MoC and she is so appreciated by the staff.
Donna Gray
2017 Volunteer of the Year
Donna Gray was awarded the first title of "Volunteer of the Year" in 2017 for her years of service. Donna's contributions include serving on the Museum's Collection Management Committee, hosting events, inventorying the collection, and providing tours. Donna, and her husband Bill, are avid collectors of local pottery, especially Harker Pottery, and she often shares her knowledge and expertise with the staff. Her efforts are greatly appreciated!