Submit Date: Jul 06, 2026
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Which Council district do you live in?
*
District 1
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
Merced Symphony Board Secretary
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*
Doctoral Degree
Elizabeth
A
Wolfrey
Merced College, Wolfrey
Music Studio
Adjunct Professor, Owner
and Instructor
Elizabeth A Wolfrey
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.
Is this acceptable to you?
Yes
No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:
Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I moved to Merced from Oklahoma in 2022 while I was in the finishing stages of my doctorate in music having no idea what to expect. What I ended up finding was a place where I could finally put down roots. Since then, I have attended or been a part of musical performances, art shows, fundraisers, recitals, and community events and am actively seeking out ways to get more involved.
I have fifteen years of professional experience in the
arts and am deeply motivated by expanding access to education and increasing arts involvement in the community. While living in Oklahoma, I worked for El Sistema Oklahoma, a nonprofit organization that provides free music education to children in Oklahoma City Schools which nurutred my passion for expanding access to the arts and arts education. As a professional musician, I have a background working with a diverse group of students, community members, and area professionals. In addition to my performance, I have experience in the area of arts administration including planning large scale events and recitals, communicating with guest artists, and running a small business. I am applying to the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission so that I can continue contributing to the vibrancy arts community in Merced in a more meaningful and impactful way.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
As a portfolio musician, I wear many hats and work doing a few different things. I am primarily self employed as the owner and instructor of Wolfrey Music Studio where I teach 25 children and adults private music lessons every week. In addition to my studio work, I also teach several classes and applied music lessons at Merced College as an adjunct music faculty member. I also regularly volunteer and work with band directors across the central valley and have a regular commitment with Ceres Unified School District as their woodwind specialist teaching private lessons, directing the flute choir, and tech-ing for their marching band. I am also an active gigging musician and regularly perform with the Merced Symphony (and other symphonies along the 99, Stockton, etc) and often play woodwinds, piano, or synthesizer in the pit orchestra of many of the musical theater productions in and around town.
I've been serving on the board of the Merced Symphony since 2023 and have been their secretary since 2024. I am currently serving a 4 year term as committee chair for the Flute Choirs and Clubs Committee with the National Flute Association and previously served on the board of the Oklahoma Flute Society as chair of Competitions and Masterclasses. I really enjoy getting involved in things bigger than me am actively looking for ways to get involved in more projects within the arts community in Merced. In addition to my work with the National Flute Association and Oklahoma Flute Society, my volunteer experience is broadly within the musical community and includes recruiting personnel for performances and events, coordinating and organizing events and performances, stage hand and setup for conferences and performances, and communications and correspondence (I've been the recording and correspondence secretary for several organizations in college, grad school, and in the non-profit 501c3 sector.)
Elizabeth A Wolfrey
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What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
The description on the website only gives away a little bit of what the Arts and Culture Commission really is about so I went back and looked up the public meeting agendas and minutes from past meetings to see what the commission was up to over the last few years. I think the description undersells the tremendous work this committee already does fostering not only the display of public art but supporting members of its own community in the process. From photography exhibits, utility box designs and locations, and the public murals I drive by everyday, it's coming into clearer focus just why Merced was chosen as one of California's new cultural districts.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
n/a
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
n/a
Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Elizabeth_Wolfrey_DMA_CV.docx.pdf
Elizabeth A Wolfrey
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*
A Friend
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
Demographics
Ethnicity
Caucasian/Non-Hispanic
Gender
Female
Submission
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.
EW
Elizabeth A Wolfrey
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
ELIZABETH WOLFREY
| |
Education
Doctor of Musical Arts, Flute Performance 2023 University of Oklahoma Norman, OK
Dissertation: Towards a More Inclusive Flute Pedagogy
Principal Professors
Valerie Watts – Flute
Rodney Ackmann – Chamber Music
Master of Music, Music Theory 2023
University of Oklahoma Norman, OK
Thesis: A Theoretical & Topical Analysis of Cécile Chaminade’s Concertino op. 107 Principal Professor
Sarah Ellis – Music Theory
Master of Music, Flute Performance 2017
University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN
Principal Professor
Shelley Binder – Flute
Graduate Certificate, Music Theory Pedagogy 2017 University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN
Thesis: Teaching Outside the Canon: Analyzing Sonata Form in Works By Underrepresented Composers Principal Professor
Barbara Murphy – Music Theory
Bachelor of Music, Flute Performance 2015
Christopher Newport University Newport News, VA
Principal Professor
Bokyung Kim – Flute
Teaching Experience
Merced College Merced, CA May 2023 – Present
Adjunct Instructor of Music
- Applied Flute
o Teach weekly applied flute lessons to undergraduate music majors enrolled in associates and associates-to-transfer degree programs.
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
o Develop individualized instructional strategies for students’ needs and goals, especially as they relate to transferring to 4-year Bachelor of Music programs. o Assist in the preparation of transfer auditions with associates-to-transfer degree program students.
- Applied Piano
o Teach weekly applied piano lessons to undergraduate music majors enrolled in associates and associates-to-transfer degree programs.
o Develop individualized instructional strategies for students’ needs and goals, especially as they relate to transferring to 4-year Bachelor of Music programs. o Assist in the preparation of transfer auditions with associates-to-transfer degree program students.
- Class Piano I
o Teach class piano to undergraduate music majors enrolled in associates and associates-to-transfer degree programs.
o Design course curriculum and administer exams.
- Class Piano II
o Teach class piano to undergraduate music majors enrolled in associates and associates-to-transfer degree programs.
o Design course curriculum and administer exams.
- American Popular Music History
o Teach an introductory course on the development of various genres of popular music and their relationship to the social and political histories of the United States. o Design course curriculum and administer exams.
Wolfrey Music Studio Merced, CA 2013 – Present o Recruit students from band programs in the surrounding areas and online. o Teach weekly flute lessons to students of a wide variety of ages (K-12, collegiate, and adult).
o Develop individualized instructional strategies for students’ needs and goals. o Coach high school students for all-state, regionals, summer programs, and college auditions.
o Author digital resources for review and reinforcement of concepts taught during weekly lessons.
o Manage repertoire selection, billing, facility reservation, and scheduling for a studio of 25-35 students.
o Flute and woodwind instructor at Merced High School (Merced, CA), Central Valley High School (Ceres, CA), Golden Valley High School (Merced, CA)
University of Oklahoma Norman, OK Aug 2017 – May 2021 Flute Studio Teaching Assistant
- Applied Lessons
o Taught applied flute lessons as instructor of record to undergraduate music minors and non-majors, as well as undergraduate and graduate secondary applied lessons. o Taught a wide range of ages and playing proficiencies. | Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
o Online experience due to COVID-19 pandemic.
- Chamber Ensembles
o Rehearsed and conducted the University of Oklahoma Flute Choir. o Selected repertoire for programming and concert performance. o Coached undergraduate mixed wind chamber groups in preparation for competition and performance.
- Flute Methods
o Instructor of record for the flute section of music education students. o Responsible for design and instruction of the flute methods course for undergraduate music education majors.
o Adapted each semester based on time allotment, enrollment, and evolving University practices.
o Delivered in both virtual and hybrid instructional formats. o Authored flute-specific resources for music education students to rely on during K-12 teaching.
- Studio Facilitation
o Organized flute studio projects, collaborations, and events such as performances, lectures, and receptions including facility reservation and preparation. o Researched and authored program notes.
o Coordinated guest artist itineraries and served as point-of-contact for visiting musicians.
University of Tennessee Knoxville, TN Aug 2015 – May 2017 Graduate Teaching Assistant
- Applied Lessons
- Studio Facilitation
- Introduction to Classical Music
- History of Rock
Norman Music Institute Norman, OK Aug 2021 – May 2023 Instructor of Flute, Recorder, and Piano
o Taught weekly lessons to a studio of 30-35 flute, recorder, and piano students. o Developed individualized instructional curricula around students’ needs and goals. o Taught a wide range of ages, from Pre-K to adult.
o Prepared students for recital performances and collaborations. o Accompanied flute and piano students for recital performances.
Imagine Music & Arts Norman, OK Aug 2018 – May 2022 Instructor of Flute & Music Theory
o Taught weekly lessons to a studio of 5-10 flute and music theory students. o Developed individualized instructional curricula around students’ needs and goals. o Prepared students for recital performances and collaborations. o Accompanied flute students for recital performances.
El Sistema Oklahoma Oklahoma City, OK Aug 2018 – May 2020 | Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
Flute Instructor
- Applied Lessons
o Taught group flute classes and private flute lessons to students grades 5-12. o Instructed beginner woodwind group classes (grades 5-7) for students on flute, clarinet, oboe, and bassoon.
o Adapted instruction based on students’ needs and larger program goals. o Assisted in ensemble rehearsal and sectionals.
o Organized and guided students in performances and other off-campus events. o Assisted in the daily facilities operations including distribution of materials and preparation of spaces.
Guest Clinics, Workshops, and Masterclasses
University of the Pacific Masterclass Stockton, CA Oct 15, 2024 ● Led masterclass with student performers
Oklahoma Flute Society Flute Fair Norman, OK Mar 25, 2023 University of Oklahoma
● Presentation: “Finding Your Next Favorite Piece: Inclusive Programming Ideas for the 21st Century”
Recording Studio Techniques Merced, CA Nov 7 – 18, 2023 University of California Merced
● Presentation: “Recording Strategies for Flute, Piccolo, and End-Blown Instruments”
OFS Flute Pedagogy Workshop Oklahoma City, OK Feb 18, 2022 Oklahoma Flute Society
● Presentation: “Big Studio and Small Business: Building and Maintaining a Successful Private Studio”
National Flute Association Convention Virtual Aug 12 - 15, 2021 National Flute Association – Virtual
● Presentation: “More of What Works: How Interleaved Practicing Can Revolutionize Your Practice”
Honor Band Audition Clinic Oklahoma City, OK Nov 12, 2021 Oklahoma Flute Society
● Worked with area high school students on preparing regional honor band audition excerpts.
WSU Flute Day Wichita, KS Mar 4, 2019 Wichita State University
● Presentation: “Modern Practice Techniques for Modern Music” | Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
● Led Play-Along Workshop: “Warm-Ups that Work for Everyone”
Smoky Mountain Flute Invitational Knoxville, TN Jan 14-15, 2017 University of Tennessee
● Led Play-Along Workshop: “Warming Up the Body and Mind”
Smoky Mountain Flute Invitational Knoxville, TN Apr 9-10, 2016 University of Tennessee
● Led Play-Along Workshop: “How to Practice That: Ideas for the Mendelssohn Scherzo”
Professional Service
Flute Choirs and Clubs Committee Chair U.S.A. 2025-2029 National Flute Association
● Submit proposals, organize and host events for the NFA convention (flute clubs panel discussions,playalongs, and/or workshops)
● Update and compile the list of local flute clubs and flute choirs. ● Compile a list of regional festivals to be given out as a hand-out at the NFA Convention. ● Invite and onboard new members annually for 4-yr terms ● Maintain committee-related documents
● Facilitate quarterly meetings, with one at the convention. ● Provide minutes for such meetings to share with committee members and submit them to the Executive Director as well.
Merced Symphony Merced, CA 2023-present
Board Member -- Secretary
Oklahoma Flute Fair Norman, OK Mar 25, 2023 University of Oklahoma
● Organized and ran the Collegiate Young Artist Competition and Collegiate and High School Masterclasses.
● Recruited competition judges, outlined procedures, and awarded prizes to competition winners
Competition Chair Oklahoma Aug 2022- Aug 2023
Oklahoma Flute Society
● Organized and ran three competitive events for the annual flute fair. ● Recruit guest adjudicators from flute organizations and colleges outside of Oklahoma. ● Managed and organized competition entries for anonymous distribution to preliminary round judges.
● Handled rehearsal logistics between in preparation
Doctoral Student Representative Norman, OK Aug 2019 – May 2021 University of Oklahoma Graduate Studies Committee
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
● Attended Graduate Studies Committee meetings as an elected representative on behalf of graduate students in the School of Music.
Adjudication – Pride of Oklahoma Norman, OK 2018 – 2021 University of Oklahoma
● Evaluated and ranked auditioning flutists over several days.
Adjudication – Oklahoma Intercollegiate Band Oklahoma City, OK 2020 Oklahoma Intercollegiate Band
● Evaluated and ranked auditioning flute and piccolo players for placement in ranked ensembles.
Adjudication – CODA Honor Band Oklahoma City, OK 2019 Central Oklahoma Director’s Association
● Evaluated and ranked auditioning flutists over several days.
Conducting Workshop Norman, OK June 12-15, 2018 University of Oklahoma
● Performed in the workshop ensemble and provided feedback to participants.
Co-Chair – Smoky Mountain Flute Invitational Knoxville, TN Jan 14-15, 2017 University of Tennessee
● Organized schedule of events at the flute fair, served as point of contact with the guest artist, and reserved performance and lecture halls for presentations.
Adjudication – KMTA Flute Competition Knoxville, TN 2017 Knoxville Music Teachers Association
● Evaluated and ranked auditioning flutists for selection of scholarship funds.
New York Summer Music Festival Oneonta, NY 2014 – 2015 ● Assisted faculty in group classes, sectionals, and masterclasses. ● Coached student chamber groups of mixed winds.
Commission Contributions
Alexandra Molnar-Suhadja Projected 2024 Title TBD
Flute Choir Commission for the Oklahoma Flute Society
Composer TBD Projected 2025 Title TBD, in memory of Feodora Steward
Piccolo Commission for the Oklahoma Flute Society
Amanda Harberg 2022
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
● Piano & Synthesizer
Merced College Band, Merced College Merced, CA 2022 – Present ● Flute, clarinet, and saxophone
Merced College Jazz Band, Merced College Merced, CA 2022 – Present ● Lead alto saxophone, flute soloist
Fort Smith Symphony Fort Smith, AR 2021
● 2nd Flute
Enid Symphony Enid, OK July 2020
● Flute and Piccolo
Norman Philharmonic, Oklahoma Norman, OK 2019 – 2021 ● Flute and Piccolo
First Baptist Church Orchestra Norman, OK 2018 – 2022 ● Flute and Piccolo
Oklahoma Composers Orchestra Oklahoma City, OK Jan 2020 ● Flute
Performance Experience—Selected Solo Features
David Lim Organ Recital Merced, CA Sept 22, 2023
Central Presbyterian Church
● Featured guest artist on Erik Meyer’s Lydian Suite for Flute and Organ
Celebration of Service Feb 16, 2022
McFarlin United Methodist Church
● Featured soloist on world premiere of Baba Y etu arr. Kevin McChesney
Doctoral Flute Recital Apr 18, 2020
University of Oklahoma
● Works by Valerie Coleman, Yuko Uebayashi, Jennifer Margaret Barker, and Amy Beach
Baroque Flute Recital Nov 22, 2019
University of Oklahoma
● Traverso soloist, performed by G.P . Telemann
Doctoral Flute Recital Apr 21, 2019
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
University of Oklahoma
● Works by Jindrich Feld, Lili Boulanger, Franz Doppler, Valerie Coleman, and Madeleine Dring
OU New Century Ensemble Nov
4, 2018
University of Oklahoma
● Soloist on Jennifer Margaret Barker’s Na Trì Peathraichean
Doctoral Flute Recital Apr 26, 2018
University of Oklahoma
● Works by C.P .E. Bach, Dirk-Michael Kirsch, Elizabeth Brown, and Pierre Sancan
Concerto Competition Winners Concert Feb 7, 2013 Christopher Newport University
● Soloist with orchestra on Mozart’s Concerto in D Major, K. 314
Performance Experience—Selected Chamber Ensembles
Brandilyn Davidson, DMA Recital May 9, 2023 ● Featured flute performer, “Culturally Responsive Music Education”
UC Merced Faculty & Friends Concert Apr 23, 2023 ● Featured flute performer
Ruggles Native American Music Series Nov 3, 2021 ● Piccolo, C flute, and Bass flute with composer on Dream World by Jerod Impichchaachaaaha’ Tate
Skye Singleton-Baxter, DMA Lecture Recital May 12, 2021 ● Recorded principal flute parts for opera scenes
Eufala Winds 2017 – 2020
● OU Graduate woodwind quintet
Danielle Harrington, DMA Recital Sep 2019 ● Performed excerpts from Meyerbeer’s L’Etoile du Nord
Thomas Cannon, DMA Lecture Recital Mar 2019 ● Program included Francis Poulenc’s Rhapsodie Negre and Maurice Ravel’s Chansons Madécasses
Dan Harbaugh, DMA Conducting Recital Feb 2019 ● Principal flute
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
OU Musical Mosaic Concert Sep 2018
● Performed Valerie Coleman’s Red Clay and Mississippi Delta with the Eufaula Winds
Presidential Inauguration and New Sooner Convocation Aug 2018 ● Chamber music performance for James Gallogly’s inauguration at the University of Oklahoma
OU Conducting Symposium Jul 2018 ● Symposium selections included Emil Hartmann’s Serenade, Igor Stravinsky’s Octet, Gordon Jacob’s Old Wine in New Bottles , and Richard Strauss’ Serenade for Wind Ensemble, Op. 7.
Eufaula Winds Spring Tour Mar 2018 ● Multiple performances at local libraries, veteran centers, and the OK State Capitol building OU Musical Mosaic Concert Sep 2017
● Performed Valerie Coleman’s Umoja with Eufaula Winds
CNU Flute Choir 2011 – 2015
● Performed at the Mid-Atlantic Flute Festival in 2012
Performance Experience—Selected Ensemble
G Street Revolution (Rock Band) 2023 – Present ● Tenor saxophone, flute, and backup vocals
Flute Choir, University of Oklahoma 2017 – 2020 ● Director, performer, conductor
Collegium Musicum, University of Oklahoma 2017 – 2021 ● Featured performer on flute and recorder
Symphony Orchestra, University of Oklahoma 2017 – 2018 ● Principal flute
Opera Orchestra, University of Oklahoma 2017 – 2018 ● Principal flute in Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel and Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor
Symphony Orchestra, University of Tennessee 2015 – 2017 ● Principal flute
Master Classes
Eighth Blackbird Fall 2019
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
● Work Performed: Briccialdi, Quintet, Op. 124
James Galway, OBE Fall 2018
● Work Performed: Griffes, Poem for Flute & Orchestra
Yossi Arnheim Fall 2017
● Work Performed: Mercadante, Concerto in E Minor, Op. 57
Jim Walker Spring 2017
● Work Performed: Dutilleux, Sonatine
Robert Dick Spring 2016
● Work Performed: Messiaen, Le Merle Noir
Tadeu Coehlo Summer 2015
● Work Performed: Taffanel, Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino
Sam Coles Summer 2014
● Work Performed: Enescu, Cantabile et Presto
Research Focus & Papers
Flute Pedagogy
● Dissertation: “Towards a More Inclusive Flute Pedagogy” ● Digital Resources: Instructional videos that supplement private lessons curriculum and model proper playing technique. Additional OER videos that provide instruction and modeling of regional and all-state audition music.
● Paper Presentation: “Practicing Expressively: Combining Interleaved Practice with Note Grouping and Its Applications in Performance and Teaching.” ● “Neurodiversity in the Music Classroom,” personal blog The Neurodivergent Musician ● Summer 2020 National Flute Association Lightning Talk
Women & Gender Studies
● Paper Presentation: “Subverting the Feminine Aesthetic: Women Performers Challenging the Gender-Norm.”
Musical Topic Theory
● Thesis: “A Hermeneutic & Theoretical Analysis of Cecile Chaminade’s Concertino Op. 107”
Music Technology
● Live Sound: Central Presbyterian Church, Merced, CA
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
● 1 year as the I.T. lead for the University of Oklahoma School of Music ● Current Recording Project: Unaccompanied works for flute by underrepresented composers (anticipated completion December 2024)
Memberships & Professional Associations
Merced Symphony Board 2023 – Present
National Association for Music Teachers 2017 – Present
Oklahoma Music Teachers Association 2017 – 2023
Oklahoma Flute Society 2017 – 2023
College Music Society 2016 – Present
National Flute Association 2015 – Present
Suzuki Teacher Association 2013 – Present
Suzuki Association of America 2013 – Present
Kappa Kappa Psi Mu Nu 2012 – Present
| Elizabeth Wolfrey | | |
Submit Date: Jun 25, 2026
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
Postal Code
City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Which Council district do you live in?
*
District 5
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
No.
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*
Associate's Degree
Miranda
Griswold
Merced County Community
Action Agency
Regional Breastfeeding
Liaison
Miranda Griswold
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.
Is this acceptable to you?
Yes
No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:
Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I am an advocate for citizens being involved in their community, and I have wanted to apply for a Board for some time now; I finally feel that this is the right time. Anyone who knows me can tell you that I am one of Merced's biggest cheerleaders. While I do not yet have experience serving on a Board, I believe my deep knowledge of the community and my desire to see Merced thrive make up for that gap. My background includes nonprofit work, networking, community outreach and engagement, and health promotion and education. I bring a unique perspective to the table as an advocate for Merced, a mother who lives and works here, and a public health professional. Community is at the heart of everything I do.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I currently work for the WIC program under the Merced County Community Action Agency. I began my involvement with WIC in 2018 as a volunteer Breastfeeding Peer Counselor, facilitating the Merced Breastfeeding Cafe. I now serve as the Regional Breastfeeding Liaison, leading education and outreach efforts for the WIC program with local organizations.
My board and leadership experience includes serving on the Board for Play Adventures from 2022 to 2023, completing Valley Onward's Board and Commissions Training Class in 2020, and completing the Parent Leadership Training Institute through the Merced County Office of Education. For two years, I managed the "Nourish Merced" Facebook and Instagram pages, highlighting community and family events and resources, and I continue to maintain a webpage of community resources. In addition, I have coached soccer for the Albion and Atwater Youth Soccer Leagues and t-ball for Atwater Youth Baseball, and I volunteer with Playhouse Merced. I am an active member of the Merced Maternal Wellness Coalition and the Merced Breastfeeding Network. I will graduate from San Jose State University in December of this year with a Bachelor's degree in Public Health.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
I understand that Board roles involve reviewing expenditures, decisions, proposals, projects, and activities in order to make informed recommendations to the City Council. Key responsibilities include remaining unbiased, basing decisions on presented facts rather than assumptions, and prioritizing outcomes that improve the lives of all Mercedians. Through my work with low-income individuals in the nonprofit sector, I have gained a unique perspective that reflects the experiences of those who are often the most underserved. I bring a strong sense of justice and fairness to my work, and I believe that arts and culture play a vital role in building a thriving community.
Miranda Griswold
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Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
My top choice would be the Planning Commission, second Arts & Culture, and third Tax Transparency. Thank you for considering me!
Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Oath of Office
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Miranda_Griswold_Resume_2026.pdf
Miranda Griswold
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*
Other
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
social media (facebook)
Demographics
Ethnicity
Prefer not to Answer
Gender
Female
Submission
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.
MG
Miranda Griswold
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.
Noelle Chandler
Noelle Chandler
Submit Date: May 26, 2026
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
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Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Which Council district do you live in?
*
District 6
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission: Submitted
Question applies to multiple boards
Highest Level of Education Completed:
*
Bachelor's Degree
Professional Degree
Tom
Olejniczak
Retired Teacher/
Photographer
Tom Olejniczak
Upload a Resume
Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.
Is this acceptable to you?
Yes
No
If you selected no, please identify how you would like to be contacted:
Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I was formally trained in reconnaissance photography while serving in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. I then worker as a News Paper photographer and wrote feature articles while attending Fresno State. After retiring from working as a teacher for the Merced City School District, I decided to pursue my photography interest and develop my skills as a fine art photographer. During this journey, I've published photos in national magazines and have received awards for my photographs. Since retiring, I have made it important to help influence the direction, especially Downtown Merced, takes to revive the heart of the community. I won't get into the efforts I've made to help influence a working clock in Bob Hart Square. I'm now interested in donating my time to further the arts, that are undertaking a renaissance, in
Merced.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
I am a retired Merced City School District teacher.
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
It is my understanding the roles and responsibilities are to advise and influence the City Council as it pertains to the Arts and Culture in the City of Merced.
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
No
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
No
Requirements
Tom Olejniczak
Date of Birth
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Attendance Policy
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
Public Scrutiny
I Agree
*
Question applies to multiple boards
How did you hear about this vacancy?
*
Other
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
I saw the open positions on Facebook.
Demographics
Ethnicity
Caucasian/Non-Hispanic
Gender
Male
Submission
Tom Olejniczak
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.
TGO
Tom Olejniczak
Submit Date: May 26, 2026
First Name
Middle
Initial
Last Name
Employer
Job Title
Email Address
Primary Phone
Alternate Phone
Street Address
Suite or Apt
City
State
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City of Merced - Boards & Commissions
Profile
Are you 18 years of age or older? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Do you live within the City Limits of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Question applies to multiple boards
Are you a registered voter in the City of Merced? (Required)
Yes
No
Which Council district do you live in?
*
Unknown
Are you currently serving on a Board or Commission? If so, please list:
NA
Which Boards would you like to apply for?
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission: Submitted
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Highest Level of Education Completed:
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Master's Degree
Christopher
James
Carter
University of California-
Merced
Head Men's Volleyball Coach
Christopher James Carter
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Communication
The City of Merced uses email as a preferred method of communication regarding your application.
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Interests & Experiences
Tell us about yourself, and why you are applying for this particular Board or Commission:
I am fairly new to Merced but have quickly grown to love this city. With a position within UC Merced athletics, I am dedicated to see this city continue to grow and expand and want to be a part of that in whatever capacity I can. I am a quick learner, have my bachelors in Political science, and even worked in local government in college.
Please list your current employer and relevant volunteer experience.
UC Merced Men's Volleyball head coach Eagle Scout Big Brother Big sister volunteered for multiple congressional campaigns in college,
What is your understanding of the roles and responsibilities of this Board or Commission?
My understanding is that the Planning Commission serves as an advisory and decision- making body that helps guide the City’s growth and development in a way that aligns with community needs, long-term planning goals, and local regulations. The Commission reviews proposals, zoning changes, development projects, conditional use permits, and subdivisions to ensure they are consistent with the City’s General Plan and municipal code.
I understand
that the role also involves balancing economic development with responsible planning, public safety, environmental considerations, infrastructure needs, and quality of life for residents. Commissioners are expected to carefully review staff reports, listen to public input, ask thoughtful questions, and make fair, informed decisions that are in the best interest of the community as a whole. I am excited about the opportunity to do this, because I believe that Merced has so much to offer, especially with a growing UC, and I want to see it become a booming college town.
I
Do you have experience or special knowledge pertaining to this Board or Commission?
Political science undergraduate degree
Any other comments you would like to add that may assist the City Council in their decision?
I am a incredibly fast learner, intelligent, I work well in teams and do well with deadlines. 2025_resume_.docx.pdf
Christopher James Carter
Requirements
Question applies to multiple boards
AB 1234 Ethics Training
I Agree
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Attendance Policy
I Agree
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Statement of Economic Interests - FPPC Form 700
I Agree
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Oath of Office
I Agree
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Public Scrutiny
I Agree
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How did you hear about this vacancy?
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Other
If you selected other, please indicate how you learned about the vacancy:
instagram
Demographics
Christopher James Carter
Date of Birth
Ethnicity
Caucasian/Non-Hispanic
Gender
Male
Submission
I declare under penalty of disqualification or termination that all statements in this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledege.
CJC
Christopher James Carter
Chris Carter
Coaching Experience
University of California- Merced, NCAA D2, Merced CA May 2025- Present
University at Albany, NCAA D1, Albany, NY April 2024-Present Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball
● 2024 America East Coaching Staff of the Year
● Guided the Great Danes to notable improvement, securing five more wins than previous season including three America East Conference victories.
● Spearheaded the Danes defensive efforts, averaging 9.5 blocks per match and 65 digs per match in conference play – an improvement of 1.0 blocks per match and 13.7 digs per match compared to the 2023 season. In the America East tournament, the Great Danes excelled defensively with 19 digs per set and 2.25 blocks per set against #1 Binghamton and #2 New Hampshire. ● Guided the development in First-team All-Conference Shynelle Woroniuk and conference Rookie of the Year in Maria Olga Siapani.
● Managed comprehensive administrative responsibilities, including organizing team travel, coordinating meal plans, overseeing equipment and gear ordering, planning and competing community service events and planning and directing all summer camps and satellite camps.
Springfield College, NCAA D3, Springfield, MA May 2022-April 2024 Graduate Assistant Coach/Recruiting Coordinator, Men’s Volleyball ● Assisted head coach in all aspects of the program including practice planning, game-strategy, player development, recruiting, and volleyball operations.
● Identified key positional needs for recruiting classes, attended regional and national tournaments, and utilized online resources such as University Athlete and NCSA, as well as utilizing club volleyball connections.
● Guided recruits through the recruiting process, including official visits, the application process, and financial aid. Organized all recruit contact information, relevant film, and individual recruiting timelines in a comprehensive Excel spreadsheet to track current and future recruiting classes. ● Monitored the academic progress of all student-athletes to ensure compliance with our team 3.0 GPA standard. Conducted bi-weekly academic checks with first-year athletes to implement academic support strategies to ensure that athletes would achieve their academic goals. ● Utilized DataV olley software to evaluate players’ performance, conduct offensive and defensive analyses, and prepared detailed scouting reports of opponents before every match. ● In-game duties include tracking opponent offensive distribution, coordinating team defense and communicating with head coach on necessary adjustments. ● Helped guide team to NCAA tournament in back-to-back years with 48-7 record in 2022 and 2023. ● Guided the development of 4 First Team All-Americans and two ROY awards. Dylan Mulvaney awarded Rookie of the Year in 2022, and Sam Levinson awarded Rookie of the Year in 2023.
Springfield College, NCAA D3, Springfield, MA August 2023-Nov 2023 Volunteer Assistant Coach, Women’s Volleyball
● Assisted head coach with planning and execution of practices. ● Team finished 27-5 with a second round NCAA appearance, was undefeated in NEWMAC conference play and was ranked in top 25 polls for the first time since 2012. ● D3 Region 2 Coaching Staff of the Year 2023.
Westcliff University, NAIA, Irvine, CA August 2021 -May 2022 Assistant Coach/Recruiting Coordinator, Women’s Volleyball ● Collaborated with head coach and other assistant coach to develop and execute tailored practice plans that address needs and objectives of the team.
● Conducted individual and position-based training groups to improve individual skills and overall positional group skills, primarily setters and pin hitters. ● Recruiting coordinator duties include using engines such as Fieldlevel and NCSA to find high quality athletes that fit the program’s needs, and coordinating scholarships, and the guiding athletes through the recruiting process. Recruiting class of 2022 included First Team All-Conference and NAIA Honorable Mention Freshman Fiona Moesching and Calpac Defender of the Year Ava Himstreet. ● Coached 4 All Cal-Pac team honorees.
Pulse Athletics Volleyball Club, Anaheim, CA September 2016-Present Boys/Girls Head Coach
● Successfully lead teams of varying age groups (12s to 18s) and skill levels including Open Level teams as Head Coach.
● Consistently achieved outstanding results, with open level teams competing at Junior Nationals and securing 3 top 10 finishes at national tournaments, including the SCV A boys Invitational, Holiday Classic, and the So-Cal Cup MLK and Showcase tournaments. Additionally coached 18s team to a silver medal at the 2021 So-Cal Cup Winter Formal tournament and took 5th place at 2022 USA V BJNC and a top 10 finish at the 2023 AAU National Championship.
● Served as club-wide setting coach, analyzing and training setters on all teams on individual skill and offensive systems to enhance team’s overall performance. ● Directed and ran highly successful clinics and positional trainings within the club, further enhancing players’ skills and attracting new players to the club.
University High School, Irvine, CA August 2020 – May 2022 Varsity Head Coach
● Oversaw entire program with three levels: Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Frosh/Soph teams with primary focus of process-based development of student athletes on the court as well as fostering emotional growth and academic success.
● Developed and executed fast-paced, high impact practice plans with an emphasis on development of structured offensive and defensive systems to enhance team performance, including perfect pass, medium pass, and high ball out-of-system on both sides of the net. ● Collaborated with Junior Varsity and Frosh/Soph coaches to ensure consistency in teaching language and skill progression, promoting seamless transition of players to the Varsity level. ● Managed a budget and worked alongside booster board to ensure fundraising goals were met to ensure program was fully funded.
● As Head Coach, led the Varsity team to unprecedented success, from an 0-10 record to finishing in the top half of the competitive Pacific Coast League and advancing to CIF playoffs in consecutive years for the first time in 5 years.
● Produced multiple all-league selections in each year.
Education
Springfield College, Springfield, MA May 2024
Masters Degree in Athletic Leadership
Cal State Fullerton , Fullerton, CA May 2022
Bachelor of Science in Political Science