We are the Doers, Movers, Shakers, Changemakers.
We believe in accelerating change with intention, sparking authentic, lasting momentum

PEOPLE
Staff

Nick Hartrich
Executive Director & Co-Founder
Nick has spent nearly three decades in Bellingham, WA, proving that creative change doesn’t wait for permission. His work has focused on sparking local-to-global sustainability campaigns and building networks that move ideas into action; however, he believes the most meaningful work happens in relationship to one another. He moves fast. He bets on people. He treats “yes” like currency — and invests it in those ready to make life more beautiful. A champion of entrepreneurs, artists, and storytellers, Nick helps lead and grow the creative economy. If your idea has heat, consider partnering with Paper Whale.

Grace Rogers
Events Manager
Grace loves working with others to create shared spaces and experiences that bring out beauty and connection. With a background in civil engineering focused on stormwater treatment and management, she brings careful attention to detail to event planning for Paper Whale. Grace wants to help people connect deeply with their community and environment. One of her greatest joys is collaborating with others toward a common goal. She is passionate about experiential art that explores self-discovery and the natural world.

Emma Mindel
Marketing Specialist
Emma is a marketer with a heart for the arts and a passion for the Pacific Northwest. She uses her promotional expertise to share information and connect people to cultural experiences that build a more vibrant community and world. She started her career with placemaking in the Chicago Loop, and is thrilled to be using the skills she honed over the past 15 years to impact public spaces here in Bellingham. When she’s not behind the scenes, you’ll find her in an art class, out in her garden, or somewhere in the mountains.

Micah Ellis
Design Director
Micah is a dedicated leader, designer, and strategist with two decades of experience focusing on driving brand impact. His expertise helps lead the entire Paper Whale brand design and art direction. See Micah's portfolio at Further Up Co.
Board of Directors

Chelsea Jepson
Board Chair

Bronson Lamb
Board Secretary

Harry Roberts
Board Treasurer

Free Borsey
Board Member

Aaron Straight
Board Member
Advisors

Gretchen Leggitt
Co-Founder & Advisor

Jeffrey Bos
Advisor

Alex Warnake
Advisor

Sachin Pai
Advisor

Peter Frazier
Advisor
PRESS
A New Place for Bellingham’s Favorite Placemakers
Bellingham Alive! (Print Only)
September 2025







