About US
Founder: AnnMarie Halterman
Born and raised in Wisconsin, AnnMarie began her military career at the Air Force Academy. Commissioned and given the Civil Engineer career field, AnnMarie was mentored by many Airmen, enlisted, civilians, and officers. She was taught professionalism, dedication to the mission, and tenacity when problem solving at home station and in deployed situations.
As a Senior Advisor at the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), AnnMarie heard military and veterans discuss the healing and uniting power of the arts. As evidence based academic research findings report on the healing, wellness, and uniting impact of art (Creative Arts Therapy and therapeutic art) and hearing hundreds of testimonials, AnnMarie was inspired to focus on community nonprofit, inclusive arts initiatives.
Inspiration for Uniting US
At Uniting US, we believe in the transformative power of art. Our mission is to make art accessible, inspire creativity, and foster meaningful discussions. Join us in our journey to unite individuals through the healing and empowering nature of artistic expression.
Key Contributors
Rob Leese
After a successful Air Force career, Rob and his family continue to enjoy traveling the world and cheering on Ben "Pins" in his arts adventures. Initially introduced to Uniting US by an Air Force colleague, Rob and his family began participating in Uniting US exhibitions and programs in late 2020. Rob's talents help Uniting US activities in all areas to include public affairs, art transport and installation, and communications.
Kimberly Johnson
An Army Veteran and multifaceted artist, Kimberly is talented in all areas and empowers others to join in healing and community building activities. In the photo, Kimberly's son Scotty was telling everyone at the British Embassy hello via cell phone.
Annette Polan
Internationally recognized Polan's , Annette is in high demand as a professional artist. After 30 years of teaching, Annette was honored as a Professor Emeritus from the Corcoran College of University. A little while later we found out Annette is also a WWII family members. Annette provides such valuable advice, from an art's operation standpoint
April Goodwin-Gill
As the Uniting US Lead Ambassador, April continually teaches jewelry making and other crafts throughout the community and is a talented public speaker. Her inspirational talks are always a highlight at Uniting US events!
Cyrus Quadland
Cyrus joined Uniting US as an artist and creates brilliant artwork that provide tranquility and peace in any environment. Shortly after joining Uniting US, Cy agreed to be an advisor to provide organizational growth and insight perspectives.
Sushobha Jenner
Sushobha, a highly celebrated mural and large artwork professional, joins Uniting US from Connecticut. As our mural art program lead, she generously provides expert advice on all Uniting US community murals. Sushobha's deign, and direction on our Celebrating our Nation: Together mural is currently hanging in Reagan National Airport (DCA).
Benjamin “Pins” Leese
Benjamin “Pins” Leese
Benjamin “Pins” Leese
Pins leads the convention outreach program for Uniting US. As a military dependent he knows well the comfort and strength art provides military veterans as well as dependents during deployment. Recently featured as an artist and guest speaker at the Military Women's Memorial Summer of Healing Art exhibit, at Arlington National Cemetery, Pins shared the importance of art in his life. A Junior Studio Arts major in the Fine Arts Program at Bowling Green State University with over 70K followers, Pins is a successful social media artist you can find @pin_head on TikTok.
Help Our Cause
The Uniting US 100% volunteer workforce need your support to cover costs to support artists with supplies, materials, shipping, exhibit preparation, and installation. Join US and contribute to this worthy cause!
Our Partners
