THE CREATIVES

Steve founded The Veterans Art Project in 2009 and has grown it from one college site to two San Diego locations, led Arts Engagement workshops to enhance veterans’ wellness, oversees operations and teaches ceramics.

Reggie, a medically retired Navy veteran with 15 years of service, is a dedicated VETART participant and instructor who, after volunteering for a year and a half, now teaches art classes at the ASPIRE Center and the V.A. in La Jolla.

Ivan Sam (ToweringHouseCreations) is a talented artist, Navy veteran, and proud member of the Diné Nation.

Sheryl Shaffer, a Vietnam Era veteran, is the creator of Veterans Helping Veterans TV and an award-winning community media producer with a background in civil service and veteran advocacy.

Stephanie, a cybersecurity student and lifelong advocate for veterans, uses her passion for storytelling and social media to honor and uplift the military community.

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Sadie Norr, a recent UCSD graduate, joined VETART through her grandfather, founder of RIP Medical Debt, and now helps the organization build community connections and raise awareness.

Tonya, an Air Force Veteran (1981–1992), overcame PTSD and chronic pain through art and now advocates for its use as a mental wellness tool for fellow Veterans.

Xochitl, a Master's student in Sociology at Stockholm University, applies her research expertise and passion for social justice to secure funding and highlight VETART’s impact on marginalized veteran communities.

Omar Columbus, a U.S. Air Force veteran and artist, uses poetry and photography as creative outlets for healing and advocacy, facilitating veteran writing workshops, performing with VETART, and advocating for arts funding before Congress.

Anthony is a multidisciplinary artist, Vietnam War veteran, and founder of the Arts for Veterans Project, dedicated to empowering others through the arts.