Jessie Francis

​Jessie Francis studied Human Services at Montreat College and ended her time there with an internship with a young artist who had autism. (Peep a painting of his in her office today.) That led to working with other adults living with various developmental disabilities. Most were artists, and Jessie, an avid aesthete, had found her place nurturing the expressions of this population. Jessie co-founded Open Hearts Art Center and is the Co-Executive Director and Director of Finances, overseeing all fiscal operations. She loves her administrative, behind the scenes work in this creative setting where every day feels lit up with an exhilarated energy. In addition to her work, Jessie’s free time is spent enjoying music, spiritual practice, and partaking in the pleasures and benefits of the vibrant and beautiful area and community of Asheville and Weaverville, where she resides with her family.