AAPA Staff
Amanda Rusten - Performing Arts Director
In addition to her role as Specials Department Director at American Academy, Amanda Rusten has served as the AAPA Performing Arts Director, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the arts to her role. She holds a B.M. in Music Performance and an M.A. in Music Education, both from the University of Denver. Amanda currently performs with the Gossamer Wind Quintet, Stratus Chamber Orchestra, and the Parker Symphony.
With 17 years in education, including 11 at American Academy, Amanda has taught high school marching band, K-8 general music, band, and orchestra. She has also contributed behind the scenes to numerous AAPA theater and showcase productions, and has been a dedicated patron and roadie for AAPA programming. She believes that involvement in the performing arts is crucial in child development by fostering creativity, confidence, perseverance, and a sense of community among students.
Hailing from Aurora, CO, Amanda's hobbies include yoga, running, painting, drawing, hiking, and traveling. In her role, she is committed to coming alongside and supporting our talented Program Managers and instructors, ensuring they have everything needed to provide exceptional performing arts experiences for our American Academy students.
Contact Amanda Rusten - [email protected] or 720-245-5000
Olivia Andrunik - Dance Program Manager
Olivia Andrunik joins us as the Dance Program Manager, bringing a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the role. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood/Childhood Education and a B.A. in Musical Theatre from Cortland State University, along with a Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Post University.
Originally from New York, Olivia has been an integral part of the American Academy community, teaching dance for several years and directing memorable productions like The Addams Family and Anastasia. When she's not inspiring students on stage, Olivia enjoys singing, dancing, reading, and spending time with her playful puppy, Winston.
Olivia is excited to continue developing our dance program, infusing it with her passion for the arts and dedication to student growth
Contact Olivia Andrunik - [email protected]
Alec Porter brings a robust blend of education and passion to his role as Instrumental Program Manager. He holds both a B.M. in Music Education and a B.M. in Music Performance from Bowling Green State University, where he graduated as a tenured scholar of the Sidney A. Ribeau President's Leadership Academy.
Hailing from Carey, OH, Alec has been a cherished middle school music teacher across all three American Academy campuses and has taught band at the school for several years. Outside the classroom, he enjoys sewing, playing video games, hiking, camping, and volunteering.
Alec is thrilled to lead the Instrumental Program, where he looks forward to fostering musical excellence and inspiring students through his dedication and love for music.
Contact Alec Porter - [email protected]
Elizabeth Ericson joins us as the Performing Arts Communications/Volunteer Coordinator, bringing a rich educational background and a passion for the arts. With a B.A. in Psychology and a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of Northern Colorado, as well as an M.A. from the University of Phoenix, Ms. Ericson blends a deep understanding of human behavior with strong organizational skills.
A Colorado native from Littleton, Elizabeth Ericson has been a dedicated 5th grade teacher at American Academy for several years and is a regular volunteer for AAPA productions. Her hobbies include traveling, photography, hiking, camping, and reading, reflecting a zest for life and a love of adventure.
In their role, Ms. Ericson is committed to enhancing communication and organizing volunteers to ensure the success of our performing arts programs and events.
Contact Elizabeth Ericson: [email protected]
Richard Martin - Database Manager
With a B.A. in Elementary Education from the University of Wyoming, Richard brings a meticulous and detail-oriented approach to the role of Database Manager. Hailing from Encampment, WY, Mr. Martin has been an integral part of the American Academy community for several years, serving as an elementary technology teacher and maintaining the certification database for AAPA.
Honored as the Best Carbon County Librarian in 2018 and Carbon County SD2 Teacher of the Year in 2010, Richard is known for their dedication and expertise. In addition to his professional achievements, he actively volunteer as the webmaster for both the Town of Encampment and the Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering.
Outside of work, Mr. Martin enjoys watching movies and spending time with his wife and two puppies.
With a B.A. in Government and International Affairs from Augustana University in Sioux Falls, SD, and a J.D. from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA, the obvious next step for Megan was Elementary Choir Director. Her day job has her working as Accounts Receivable Manager for a mid-sized law firm in San Francisco, but her love of singing and music brought her to Rebel Choir. She became a director for Rebel Choir in 2021 and has enjoyed watching the continual growth of the program ever since. Her favorite part of directing choir is teaching the students the “boring” harmony lines and then experiencing the whole complex piece come together at the concert. It is amazing what these young vocalists can do.
Originally from Saginaw, MN, Megan and her husband settled in Parker in 2014. They have two children, both attending AALM, and two adorable older dogs.