Artisans Team

​Polly Maxwell
Chief Executive Officer
Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Polly grew up with a close personal connection to the disability community through her uncle, who was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome. That early experience gave her an appreciation for the importance of employment training and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, a passion that continues to guide her professional journey.

Polly’s educational background includes Hotel and Restaurant Management at Washington State University and Business Management at Eastern Washington University. She has helped start nonprofit organizations, managed restaurants, opened new business locations, and owned her own businesses. These experiences gave her valuable insight into the needs of employers and the skills required for individuals to succeed in the workplace.

Polly joined Artisans in 2003 to help the organization reorganize its mission and expand into community-based employment. Drawing on her business expertise, she has fostered strong relationships with local employers while training staff and clients to achieve successful integration in the workplace.

As CEO, Polly oversees the operations of Artisans while staying closely involved in client employment paths. She ensures that every new client is paired with the right specialists to help them reach their goals and succeed in the career path they choose.

Outside of her professional role, Polly is a proud mother of two and has recently embraced life as an empty nester. She enjoys cooking, gardening, and caring for her backyard chickens, purchased when her kids “flew the coop.” She also loves kayaking, skiing, traveling, and became an active gamer during COVID as a way to spend more time with her husband, daughters and nieces.
​Mary Ravenna
Chief Operating Officer

​Growing up on a dairy farm in Southern Idaho, Mary learned early the value of hard work and gained first-hand experience in what it takes to run a business. That strong foundation has carried into her career at Artisans, where she supports both the organization and its clients in developing employment readiness and workplace skills.

Mary’s connection to Artisans began in 2004, when she volunteered through a service-learning course at Gonzaga University. What began as a class requirement quickly became a passion. While in college, she joined Artisans as a Work Study employee, graduating cum laude in 2007 with a B.A. in English and Journalism.

After graduation, Mary became a full-time employee and has been an integral part of the team ever since. Over the years she has held roles including Marketing Specialist, Direct Support Professional, and Employment Services Coordinator, before stepping into the role of Assistant Director in 2011.
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In her current role, Mary oversees Artisans’ programs, integrates technology into its operations, and assists the CEO with business management. Her adaptability, leadership, and long-standing dedication make her a cornerstone of Artisans’ mission and success.
Outside of work, Mary enjoys cooking, baking, hiking, skiing, and traveling. She is especially known for her Dutch cookies and homemade Kahlua—both of which have become staff favorites at Artisans. Most of all, she loves spending time with her family.
Joyce Bohlman
Front Desk Coordinator
Joyce began with Artisans in 2017. She graduated in 2010 in Office Administration and has several Microsoft Office Certifications. Over the years she has worked in office and customer service areas as well as with the elderly and the ill in hospital settings. She has a passion for helping others and knowing that success is there for all to achieve is rewarding. Joyce is a mother and a grandmother.  On her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family.
Darlene Butler
Employment Services Coordinator
Darlene was first introduced and touched by a person with a disability when friends of hers gave birth to a beautiful girl with Downs Syndrome in 1974. Her friends went on to adopt another girl who also was diagnosed with Down Syndrome into their family in 1979. These two girls enriched Darlene’s heart and opened doors to education and a career working with individuals with disabilities.

Darlene came to Artisans in 2005 as a Job Employment Services Coordinator bringing more than 22 years’ experience working with intellectually, physically, and mentally disabled adults in Washington and Montana. Her experience prior to her work with Artisans includes 6 years as a Case Manager for the Developmental Disability Administration in Yakima, Wash., 3 years as a Case Manager position at Butte Sheltered Work Shop in Butte, Montana, 7 years as a Case Manager for Montana Mental Health and 6 years as a Program Coordinator for Haven Homes residential facility for adults with disabilities in Spokane, Wash.

Darlene has a gift working with and connecting with people. This is evident in her success in job development for Artisans’ clients through the trust and relationships she is able to build with clients and employers. She is also a much practiced mentor and teacher as she is mother of five children, three step-children, four foster children as well as a proud grandmother of 20 grandchildren. 
​​Brian Burke
​Employment Services Coordinator
Brian grew up in Othello, WA and Coeur d'Alene, ID before moving to Spokane to attend Eastern Washington University, where he obtained his bachelor's degree in Music Composition. He went on to earn a Certificate in Computer and Network Support from Spokane Falls Community College.  Brian has a passion for cooking, and most of his professional experience is in the Food Service industry. He worked as a cook for fast food and full-service restaurants, a local hospital, and the County Jail. Most recently, Brian participated in an internship for Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling, working to re-employ injured workers through Washington State's L&I program. He is excited to put his diverse experience to good use helping to support Artisans' clients in exploring and growing in their own unique employment paths. When not working, Brian enjoys playing drums and singing in his band as well as backpacking, weight training, and snowboarding.
​​Kate Burke
​​Direct Support Professional
Kate grew up in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho. After high school, she moved to Spokane, Washington and attended Eastern Washington University in Cheney, Washington, earning a BA in Visual Communication Design and Fine Arts in 2011. Additionally, Kate earned her National Pharmacy Technician License while working for Rite Aid Pharmacy by completing their on-the-job certification opportunity. 

Kate brings a variety of work experiences to Artisans, including customer service in retail sales and management, landscaping and lawn maintenance, housekeeping, as well as extensive graphic design and company branding. Before coming to the Artisans, Kate was a graphic designer and creative director for an online company for over eight years. Kate takes great pride in work as a Direct Support Professional, helping her clients along their own career path and learning necessary skills along the way.

Outside of work, Kate likes to downhill mountain bike, downhill ski, paddle board, backpacking and hiking. She loves painting and drawing, photography, science fiction, her seven kitties, and automotive repair. Kate’s biggest creative outlet is designing promo materials, merchandise, and doing stage design / dressing for a local area band.
Stan Cone
Employment Services Coordinator
Direct Support Professional
Stan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the culinary industry to Artisans. Stan attended college at Le Coeur D’ Bleu Culinary Arts Academy in Portland, Oregon where he earned a degree in the hospitality field. Stan moved to Spokane afterwards to help his brother-in-law run his restaurant where he was introduced to training and working with adults with disabilities employed at the restaurant. Stan also worked with the Mead Highschool Job Shadow Program to help introduce high school age kids to the culinary industry. He has been in Spokane for 8 years with his wife and two little boys. He has enjoyed working with adults with disabilities through the partnership with various organizations at the restaurant level and is excited to be working with the Artisans where he can use his skills, knowledge and experience to help individuals seeking career paths in the culinary industry and other areas as well.
Steve Degenhardt
VP of Community Inclusion Services
​​Direct Support Professional
Steve worked supporting persons with developmentally disabled for 8 years before he came on board with the Artisans in May of 2014. He brought to the organizations years of experience job coaching as well Ability One work site supervision experience. He currently works as an Employment/Community Inclusion Specialist at Artisans. His previous work included  I have worked as a job coach, and supervised numerous government Ability One work sites. Steve finds great satisfaction in the work he does, in seeing the progress he is able to help the clients he works with attain each and every day. Outside the office Steve enjoys spending time with family and creating and making things in his workshop.

Steve’s favorite inspirational quote: “Treat each day like it is your last.”
Michael Davaz
​​Direct Support Professional
Michael joined Artisans in 2022. Michael was born and raised in the Coeur d' Alene area. He spent most of his adulthood working in various service industries, with extensive  customer service, janitorial, and food preparation. He values most patience, empathy, and integrity. Prior to joining the Artisans team, he worked as a project coordinator that made educational videos for children with development disabilities. Michael enjoys creative pursuits, like art and writing fiction. 
Ethan Decker
Direct Support Professional
 Ethan grew up in St. Louis, Missouri before moving to Spokane when he was ten. He got his bachelor’s degree in English Literature with a minor in Philosophy at Eastern Washington University and went on to earn his master’s degree in social work from Eastern as well. Ethan joined the Artisans team in 2023. Prior to Artisans, Ethan worked in a variety of different settings including social work medical rehabilitation, person-centered therapy, food service, and DJ for a jazz and blues radio station. Ethan really enjoys being able to connect with people of different backgrounds and experiences and advocate for those who need it. When he’s not working, he enjoys playing guitar, reading science fiction and philosophy, and writing.
Deirdre Farnsworth
​Direct Support Professional
Deirdre grew up in Spokane and is married with two children.  Her educational background is in the medical field, and she graduated from Spokane Community College.  Deirdre's career has primarily been in the medical industry as she held professional positions in medical offices and most recently worked as a phlebotomist at a blood center.  She also worked for a non-profit organization for five years in the past, helping people receive the medical care they needed, which was also a very fulfilling job. Deirdre really enjoys making a difference in people lives, and in May of 2021 she started working with Artisans to apply her passion for helping others in a new capacity.  In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family and outdoor activities.
Andrew Hauan
Employment Services Coordinator/
Direct Support Professional
Born in Spokane, Andrew Hauan brings a heartfelt commitment to his role as an Employment Services Coordinator and Direct Support Professional at Artisans, where he joined the team in October of 2023. Andrew's career journey is marked by over a decade of dedicated service to those in need. His experiences include serving as a Care Coordinator at Catholic Charities, where he spent 3.5 years specializing in supportive housing for both families and individuals experiencing homelessness. At Catholic Charities, he played a vital role in providing critical support and resources to help individuals rebuild their lives. Before this, Andrew spent almost 6 years at Volunteers of America, where he served as a Case Manager and Shelter Supervisor at Crosswalk, a teen homeless shelter. There, he guided and supported vulnerable youth, offering them a path toward stability and hope. In addition to his previous roles, Andrew also contributed his skills and compassion at Community Integrated Services, where he worked for 2 years at a community protection property. This experience further broadened his understanding of the diverse needs of the community. Beyond his professional life, Andrew is an artist at heart. He channels his creativity into drawing and painting, using both digital and traditional mediums. His passion for the arts reflects his belief in the power of self-expression. Andrew is not only dedicated to his work but also enjoys the simple pleasures of life. He finds joy in the world of cinema and music, often immersing himself in the magic of storytelling on the big screen or exploring the depths of various musical genres. In every aspect of his life, Andrew remains steadfast in his commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those he encounters.
Nathan Hotchkiss
Direct Support Professional
For nearly 20 years, Nathan built a career rooted in service, from his early days in the restaurant industry to running a successful white-glove cleaning and housekeeping company. His strong client relationships eventually led him into personal assistant work, where he discovered how much he enjoyed helping others on a deeper level.

That realization inspired a career shift. Nathan went on to serve as support staff at a young adult homeless shelter and later at The Arc of Spokane, where he assisted differently abled individuals in their homes. These experiences confirmed his passion for making a positive difference in people’s lives.
Nathan is now thrilled to bring his extensive service background and compassionate approach to the Artisans team, where he supports clients with their professional goals and employment journeys.
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Outside of work, Nathan enjoys film, music, and attending concerts. His love for creativity and culture brings a vibrant energy to both his personal and professional life.
Christopher Joslyn
Employment Services Coordinator
Raised in San Diego, California, Christopher moved to the Spokane area during his teenage years, where he discovered a passion for helping others. While in high school, he began tutoring students with disabilities, a meaningful experience that sparked his long-term interest in inclusion and employment support.
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After graduation, Christopher served four years in the U.S. Army in a Field Artillery role, stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas. His time in the military strengthened his leadership, teamwork, and communication skills as he worked alongside people from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Following his service, Christopher spent several years in the restaurant industry, working as a bartender and manager at the Sportsman Café. There, he honed his people skills while managing operations, onboarding and training staff, and supporting bookkeeping. He also created inclusive employment opportunities by providing on-the-job support for individuals with disabilities.

Christopher later transitioned into employment services, beginning as a Job Developer before advancing to Job Developer Lead. In this role, he helped individuals with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment, provided training and mentorship to new Job Developers and Job Coaches, conducted quality reviews, and buildt strong partnerships with local employers to promote inclusion and long-term success.

A proud family man, Christopher enjoys life with his wife and four young children. Outside of work, he loves long-distance running, biking, hiking trails around the Inland Northwest, and camping in places like Sun Lakes and Long Lake. He’s also a lifelong football enthusiast having played as a wide receiver growing up. He remains an avid player and a dedicated Las Vegas Raiders fan.
Madelyn Maxwell
Executive Assistant
​Direct Support Professional
Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Madelyn Maxwell has been a valued member of Artisans since 2020, bringing both professional expertise and a long history of volunteer service to the organization. Growing up with a great uncle diagnosed with Williams Syndrome whom she adored, Madelyn developed a personal connection to individuals with disabilities from an early age.

As Executive Assistant to the CEO and COO, she provides high-level administrative support while also working directly with clients to strengthen their employment skills. She specializes in behavior management and is recognized for her exceptional ability to de-escalate challenging situations, offering a calm and steady presence that helps individuals feel supported and empowered.
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Madelyn is currently pursuing her academic goals at Eastern Washington University, where she is majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology and minoring in Sociology. Outside of her work and studies, she enjoys baking bread, cooking, kayaking, traveling, and attending concerts. Her passion for people, combined with her natural gift for creating a positive environment, makes her an invaluable asset to Artisans.
Peyton Maxwell
Vice President of Marketing and Community Outreach
Employment Services Coordinator 
Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Peyton grew up closely connected to the disability community through her great uncle, who was diagnosed with Williams Syndrome. She adored him, and that personal connection inspired her passion for supporting individuals with disabilities. Peyton began volunteering with Artisans over the years and quickly discovered her love for helping adults with varying abilities.
Before joining Artisans as staff, Peyton spent three years working in the restaurant industry. Her passion for food began in high school, where she joined the culinary program as a sophomore. She went on to become part of a culinary team that won the Washington State competition and advanced to nationals in Washington, D.C., and in 2020 she was honored as Washington State’s Culinary Student of the Year.

Over the years at Artisans, Peyton has contributed her culinary expertise to training programs, supported clients in employment exploration, and helped lead initiatives such as the 2022 Spokane County Mini-Grant for Culinary Training. As her experience and community connections grew, Peyton’s natural ability to foster relationships opened the door for her new role as Vice President of Marketing and Community Outreach.
In this position, Peyton looks forward to expanding partnerships with local businesses, strengthening Artisans’ presence in the community, and creating more opportunities for individuals with disabilities to thrive in meaningful employment.
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Outside of work, Peyton enjoys kayaking, attending concerts, cooking, and building Legos—a mix of creativity and fun that keeps her balanced and inspired.​
Colin Morin
​Direct Support Professional
Colin brings to Artisans a wealth of knowledge and experience in the culinary industry. Born and raised in Spokane, Washington, Colin's culinary journey began early on in his life. With a passion for the art of cooking, he dedicated most of his years to honing his culinary skills, and has had the opportunity to work in some of the finest restaurants in Spokane. Colin also earned his associates degree from Spokane Falls Community College in Culinary Arts. Colin was first introduced to Artisans by working amongst individuals being supported by Artisans in a few kitchens where he worked prior to joining the Artisans team in 2022. Through his culinary expertise, educational pursuits, and deep roots in his community, Colin continues to make a lasting impact as a Direct Support Professional at Artisans.
Mike Mullinex
​Employment Services Coordinator
Mike grew up in Spokane. When he turned 18, he joined the Army, repairing night vision and tactical communication equipment. After he left the military, he attended Eastern Washington University and got his bachelor's degree in Video Production. Previously, he was making therapy videos for kids with developmental delays. Mike decided to take a more active role in helping people with disabilities and joined Artisans in 2022. In his spare time, Mike enjoys the outdoors, whether it's riding his motorcycle in the summer or snowboarding during the winter. He also enjoys artistic hobbies like 3d printing, blacksmithing and painting.  ​
Debbie Niehenke
​Direct Support Professional
Debbie has worked for the Artisans since 2008 as a Direct Support Professional. She had not worked in this field when she started with the organization, but was inspired to do the work as she had the opportunity as a manager in a previous work position to work with a client in our supported employment program.  She works primarily at our Waste Management (Smart Center) GSE job site. She is inspired to go to work every day to see the smiles on the faces of the clients she works with and by having the opportunity to help them grow and develop in their skills and employment goals. Outside the office Debbie loves spending time with her family, grandchildren and loves fishing!
Michelle Sari
​Billing Specialist
Michelle grew up in Hayden, Idaho, and moved to Spokane in 2005 to attend Spokane Falls Community College. She and her husband lived in central and western Washington, until settling back in Spokane in 2016 to raise their family.

Before joining Artisans in 2023, Michelle dedicated her time to being a stay-at-home mom to her three kids while also doing billing work from home. She also supports Artisans with office tasks, manages social media, and lends her creativity to events and celebrations. Michelle loves being part of Artisans and the mission it stands for, and she values the supportive, dedicated team she works alongside every day.

​Beyond work, she and her family enjoy hiking, skiing, traveling to new places, and spending summers at the lake. Her family, friends and work keep life busy and full of adventure.