Boy Scouts of America Four Rivers District Member at Large, American Association of Community Theatre Member, Professional Photographers of America Member, CPP At Market House Theatre, Caleb Buford has expanded the organization’s reach through creative, community-rooted marketing strategies that have increased ticket sales and strengthened public awareness. He has designed cohesive campaigns, forged meaningful partnerships, and brought a fresh, modern energy to the theatre’s storytelling. Earning his Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) credential marked a key milestone in his career, sharpening his visual storytelling skills and elevating the quality and consistency of the theatre’s marketing imagery. This credential, paired with his marketing expertise, allows Caleb to craft campaigns that are both visually compelling and strategically sound. One of his most significant challenges has been balancing tradition and innovation—respecting the legacy of a long-standing institution while modernizing its voice and platforms. He has approached this with curiosity, an openness to data, and deep collaboration with the community. By building systems for content creation, data analysis, and audience engagement, Caleb ensured the theatre’s marketing not only evolved but also became more reflective of the community it serves. Caleb’s dual mindset—equal parts creativity and strategy— enables him to move seamlessly from designing campaigns to mapping out audience data. His strength lies in telling stories that inspire emotion and action, always keeping the message unified and mission-driven. “My goal isn’t just to represent the theatre,” he shares, “but to help people see themselves in it.” He draws inspiration from those who view the arts as service: volunteers who give their time, parents who bring children to rehearsals, educators who weave creativity into their lessons. For Caleb, these people embody the true impact of the arts, reminding him to keep empathy at the center of his work. His vision extends beyond ticket sales. Caleb wants more people to feel they belong in the arts—not only as spectators, but as participants and contributors. He hopes to be remembered for telling stories that mattered and for empowering both individuals and the community. To future creatives, Caleb offers this guidance: lead with humility, listen deeply, and serve with purpose. The most powerful contributions often come not from grand gestures, but from quiet persistence, empathy, and a deep respect for the people you serve. Caleb Buford Director of Marketing & Communications, Market House Theatre Sponsored by 40 Under Forty Clayton Brewer teaches math in a Title 1 school, where students often arrive each day carrying more than just backpacks. Many face significant challenges outside of school, and math is rarely their favorite subject. But in Clayton’s classroom, the focus isn’t just on equations—it’s on connection. He believes deeply in the idea that “kids don’t care how much you know until they know you care.” His first priority is to build relationships and create a safe space where students feel seen and supported. Once those barriers begin to come down, learning follows. “When students feel safe, they start to believe in themselves,” he says. “That’s when I can foster a love for learning— and for math.” Clayton’s teaching style is anything but predictable. One day might involve blowing bubbles with food coloring to create circles for geometry. Another could see the “funeral” of subtraction or a new chant or dance to make a tricky formula stick. His willingness to be silly—often in front of a room full of middle schoolers ready to tease—keeps students engaged and willing to play along. He credits his own middle school math teacher, Ginger Stewart (then Hollowell), for inspiring his approach. She kept lessons lively with chants, handstands, and even a rap based on Missy Elliott’s “Work It” to teach dividing fractions—something Clayton still remembers years later. He strives to bring that same energy to his classroom, hoping to one day be remembered by a student as their own “Mr. Brewer.” For Clayton, math is important, but it’s not the only thing. He wants students to know he’s their biggest cheerleader, both inside and outside the classroom. He shows up for athletic games, school plays, and other events, making sure his students know they are supported in all aspects of life. His advice to students and colleagues alike is simple: don’t be afraid to fail. To him, failure stands for “First Attempt in Learning.” Every small victory—and even setbacks—are steps toward success. “You eat an elephant one bite at a time,” he says. “What’s not okay is giving up. If you keep trying, you’ll get there.” Clayton Brewer’s work is proof that the right mix of care, creativity, and persistence can turn a classroom into more than just a place to learn math—it can become a space where students feel safe, capable, and ready to take on the world. Clayton Brewer Teacher, Paducah Middle School 10 SEPTEMBER 2025 | INTHEVUE.COM
