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Eight years of MoNA’s Education Program’s accomplishments, under the leadership of Jasmine Valandani, were celebrated with Mimosas and cake at the Museum of Northwest Art April 16th with a reception for educators, volunteers, stakeholders and friends after work. The event also ushered in a new era of education program leadership with current Education Assistant Kyra Arnett taking the helm this week.

Valandani thanked the support of so many who make MoNA’s education programs possible, from museum-school partnerships to community outreach. “Teaching is about love,” Valandani summarized. Several attendees came forward with tributes to both Valandani and Arnett, for their transformative efforts in engaging the community in enriching cultural experiences. MoNA’s education programming includes its signature MoNA Link program, serving over 8,000 Skagit students since 2003.

The photo captures Valandani and Arnett celebrating the program’s accomplishments with volunteers. Left to Right: Arnett, Anita Ordonez, Valandani, Margaret Studer, Glenn Bodner and Dee Doyle. – Text and photo courtesy of Clara Duff