About Project Sam
Created in memory of Samuel Morrison Schlesinger, Project Sam honors a young artist whose curiosity, creativity, and sensitivity shaped how he saw the world. Through photography, music, and poetry, Sam expressed his unique perspective. We carry his spirit forward by supporting artists, encouraging conversations about mental health, and using art to foster empathy, connection, and a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
Our Mission
To bring people together through art and creative projects that promote curiosity and inspire honest conversations about mental health, emotional literacy, and human connection.
Our Vision
A more connected and compassionate community where differences are celebrated, individual experiences are honored, and art makes the deeply personal feel universal.
Our People
Project Sam is guided by family, friends, and creative collaborators who share a belief in the power of art, compassion, and human connection. Each brings a unique perspective and a commitment to honoring Sam's spirit while creating something meaningful for others.
Board of Directors
Project Sam is guided by family and longtime friends who knew and loved Sam, each bringing their own talents, perspectives, and commitment to carrying his spirit forward. Together, they help shape an organization rooted in creativity, compassion, and human connection.
Elizabeth Woody
Founder & Executive Director
Elizabeth founded Project Sam in memory of her son, Sam. She provides the organization's overall vision and leadership, guiding its mission, priorities, and growth while protecting the integrity of Sam's story, artwork, and legacy.
Will Schlesinger
Founding Director & Artistic Director
Sam's older brother, Will, guides Project Sam's artistic direction, including exhibitions, visual identity, and creative projects. He brings both a personal connection to Sam's creative spirit and a thoughtful, contemporary perspective to the organization's work.
Jessica Turner
Founding Director & Visual Storytelling
Jessica, Will's fiancée, helps tell Project Sam's story through photography and visual media. She supports the documentation of artists, exhibitions, events, and community experiences, helping capture the people and moments that bring the organization's mission to life.
Grant Cayton-Woody
Founding Director & Guardian
Sam's stepbrother, Grant, helps safeguard the heart and purpose of Project Sam. He brings a personal understanding of Sam and a loyal, thoughtful perspective, helping ensure the organization remains grounded in fairness, integrity, and its founding values.
Melinda Wickley
Founding Director & Digital Media
A close friend of the family, Melinda brings a longstanding personal connection to Sam and his family. She guides Project Sam's digital presence, including its website, social media, and communications, helping share the organization's work and connect with the broader community.
Board Support
Cynthia
Co-Founder & Consultant
Cynthia knew Sam personally and attended his solo art exhibition, creating a special connection to his life and artistic expression. While not a Board member, Cynthia works closely with the Board to support Project Sam's artistic initiatives and carry Sam's creative spirit forward.
Looking Ahead
Advisory Committees
As Project Sam grows, we hope to establish two volunteer advisory committees to bring additional expertise, perspective, and community connections to our work.
Mental Health Advisory Committee
Mental health professionals, advocates, educators, and individuals with lived experience who can offer guidance on sensitive topics, educational content, and approaches that encourage thoughtful, compassionate conversations about mental health.
Arts Advisory Committee
Artists, curators, arts educators, and creative professionals who can offer perspective on exhibitions, artist opportunities, grant programs, and connections within the arts community.
Both committees are envisioned as flexible, volunteer opportunities to share knowledge, ideas, and experience. Members would serve in an advisory capacity rather than as members of the Board of Directors.
Growing Together
Project Sam is just beginning, and we know that it will be shaped by the people who join us along the way. There is room here for different perspectives, new ideas, and unexpected collaborations.
We hope you'll find a place in the story we're creating together.