Meet the Board:
Anna
Board President
Anna Urias joined the Board of Directors in 2022 and serves as the Board President. She has a background in environmental science, forestry, and economics and works at a local land trust in the conservation field. As a volunteer for FNCF, she is excited to create programs for the community to explore and enhance their vocational and artistic skills. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, hunting, and backcountry adventures with her dog Bowie.
Nancy
Board Treasurer
Nancy Maldonado has been an active member of The Curious Forge for several years and has witnessed firsthand the powerful impact creative spaces can have on a community. She has seen children and adults alike discover confidence, imagination, and connection through hands-on making — learning new tools, exploring new crafts, and building lasting friendships along the way.
Inspired by the transformative energy of the Forge, Nancy joined the Forging Nevada County Forward (FNCF) Board to help expand access to these opportunities for others. She is passionate about creating pathways for individuals of all ages to learn, grow, and express themselves through craftsmanship and creativity.
In her free time, Nancy enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, painting, and finding quiet moments to relax and recharge.
Jeff
Board Secretary
I grew up making things, assembling things, and taking things apart. My gram and parents were all makers, crafters, and artists of some sort or other. I ended up with an Engineering education and a Manufacturing experience. All along the way making or fixing whatever I needed or wanted.
As a kid I learned to sew, knit, cut, glue, assemble, and re-imagine various objects. Today, I work with wood, metal, fabric, plastic, cars, computers, glass, and other things. A member of the Forge since the inception.
Todd
Board Member
Todd Sheets, a retired Prop Master, Filmmaker, and artist, is passionate about empowering others through hands-on learning and creative exploration. Known for his practical mindset and collaborative spirit, he is committed to helping people build confidence, develop skills, and strengthen connections that enrich their communities.
Elias
Board Member
Elias Grant has a background in conservation and enjoying baking and making things from a variety of materials.