The School Photographers of America (SPOA) announced the appointment of Stephanie Hayes as its executive director. With more than a decade of accomplished leadership in nonprofit management, event planning, and community engagement, Hayes joins SPOA with a strong commitment to advancing the organization’s mission of promoting, educating, advocating for, and protecting the traditions of school photography and yearbooks.
Hayes succeeds Doyce Crandall, who served as interim executive.
Hayes brings to SPOA a remarkable track record of strategic business leadership. Most recently, she served as the Founder and CEO of Art of Joy Social House and Mercantile, where she transformed a historic property into a highly successful community destination, recognized for innovative community engagement and creative business development. Hayes’ leadership and dedication to excellence earned accolades from both Milwaukee Magazine and the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce, including the prestigious “2023 Spark Plug” award.
Before launching her own business, Hayes served as the Executive Director of the Cedarburg Cultural Center, where she led strategic initiatives to elevate the organization’s impact. During her tenure, she directed the launch of the Cedarburg History Museum and spearheaded a successful capital campaign that raised more than $500,000 for infrastructure improvements. Her leadership was especially impactful during the COVID-19 pandemic, when she secured critical funding to maintain the organization’s operations, ultimately earning the Chamber’s “2020 Non-Profit of the Year” award.
“We are thrilled to welcome Stephanie Hayes to lead School Photographers of America. Her extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, paired with her strategic approach to community and business development, will undoubtedly strengthen SPOA’s mission and presence within the industry,” said Cindy Gallien, board chairman, SPOA. “Her vision for expanding our membership and enhancing our community engagement aligns perfectly with the future of SPOA.”
In her new role, Hayes aims to grow SPOA’s membership, elevate its annual conference offerings, and explore initiatives to ensure greater access to professional photography for underserved students. “I am excited to work alongside SPOA’s talented board, membership and industry partners to build upon the strong foundation of this organization,” said Hayes. “Together, we can continue to capture the memorable moments that define students’ school experiences and further the traditions of this impactful industry.”
Beyond her professional experience, Hayes has actively contributed to her community through various volunteer and leadership roles, including with Rotary International, the Cedarburg Public Arts Commission, and the Cedarburg Education Foundation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies and Theatre Arts from Illinois Wesleyan University and is pursuing a Professional Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
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