James Cahna

James has been an essential force behind the Sanctuary’s technical operations for many years. His involvement with the Sanctuary began with an internship, but the community of interesting people and there always being plenty of good food kept him involved as a volunteer and Sanctuarian well after his time as an intern ended.

James has been working behind the scenes, building the infrastructure, ensuring the Sanctuary’s digital systems run smoothly and reliably. He’s been instrumental in building out the organization’s internal archiving systems, preserving years of independent media and community programming for future generations. He supported the enhancements to spaces, upgrading the lighting grid to improve our live performances and helping to construct the radio room when we launched WOOC 105.3 FM. James also played a key role in establishing the technology infrastructure NATURE Lab, creating accessible technology resources for community members. Through his quiet but steadfast dedication, James has helped transform the Sanctuary’s technical capabilities, enabling the organization to amplify its mission of promoting social and environmental justice through media and art.

James lives in Latham, with his husband, and can be found tinkering with house projects when not making sure the networks and access at the Sanctuary are working properly.