About Us
Our Mission
The Oak Ridge Arts Collective (ORAC) brings creativity to life for families across Northwest Guilford County and beyond. We believe every person holds unique value, and that the arts are a joyful invitation—to create, connect, and grow. Our teachers combine warmth, expertise, and flexibility to inspire learners of all ages and styles. Through music, dance, and visual art, we prioritize growth and confident expression, guiding each student to embrace their creativity and celebrate their achievements. Located on the campus of Oak Ridge Presbyterian Church, ORAC is a place to flourish, belong, and experience the fullness of life through the arts.
Board of Directors
Penny Schneck, Chair
Ken Brown, Creative Director
John Carlson, Treasurer
With a strong track record of scaling digital engagement, grant programs, and outreach for major mission-driven non-profits including the American Red Cross, Vitalant and Triad Local First, Penny brings the strategic vision and governance needed to help lead the Oak Ridge Arts Collective board.
John Carlson, Treasurer
Ken Brown, Creative Director
John Carlson, Treasurer
With deep roots in nonprofit work, proven leadership across diverse teams, and a solid foundation in financial management, John offers a balanced blend of mission‑driven insight and analytical expertise.
Eileen Dick, Secretary
Ken Brown, Creative Director
Ken Brown, Creative Director
Eileen Dick joins the board with 20 plus years of corporate experience in IT and systems process design, as well as many years spent in voluntary positions, including being current Clerk of Session for ORPC, and secretary of several local organizations. She is a strong believer in the power of music and the arts, enjoys singing in the chu
Eileen Dick joins the board with 20 plus years of corporate experience in IT and systems process design, as well as many years spent in voluntary positions, including being current Clerk of Session for ORPC, and secretary of several local organizations. She is a strong believer in the power of music and the arts, enjoys singing in the church choir, and playing trombone in a community concert band.
Ken Brown, Creative Director
Ken Brown, Creative Director
Ken Brown, Creative Director
With decades of experience in music education, visual arts, and performance, Ken is deeply committed to making the arts accessible, joyful, and community-centered, including coaching adult amateur bands and helping musicians of all backgrounds and abilities experience the joy of making music together.
David Schmidt, Communications Director
David brings a lifelong passion for music making, having sung in choirs since fifth grade, and has performed at venues including Carnegie Hall and the Nobel Peace Prize Ceremony in Oslo, Norway. He is eager to craft meaningful, inclusive, and transformative musical experiences that inspire and enrich his community.
Judy Davis, Director
Judy has a lifelong connection to music as the wife and mother of musicians. She also brings professional experience as a registered nurse and safety and health advocate and now enjoys encouraging her baby grandson as he begins his own musical journey.
Leigh Wisner, Director
Leigh Wisner, Director
Leigh brings twenty years of experience working with faith-based organizations and institutions and is passionate about empowering others in the community to use their gifts.
