Influential Woman · Journalism | Education | Art & Design | Geology | Photography
Andrea Bond
Owner, Andrea Bond Art, LLC
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Her Story
About Andrea
Andrea Bond is the owner and founder of Andrea Bond Art, LLC, where she promotes and sells her original artwork while drawing on a remarkably diverse professional background spanning journalism, education, geology, design, photography, and entrepreneurship. A graduate of the University of Missouri–Columbia with a bachelor's degree in journalism and minors in geology and anthropology, Andrea has built a career defined by creativity, innovation, and a passion for solving complex problems.
Her early work as a journalist earned national recognition through her editorial, "An Introduction to Mining and Ethics," which became a respected resource studied in journalism programs. She is currently pursuing her Missouri teaching certification as she continues expanding her impact through education and the arts.
Throughout her career, Andrea has embraced opportunities across multiple disciplines, including journalism, radio broadcasting, mining, communications, education, culinary arts, and small business ownership.
As Lead Tutor at a residential treatment center for at-risk teenage boys, she transformed a traditional computer-based curriculum into an engaging, hands-on learning experience by introducing interactive science activities, reading groups, life-skills instruction, and creative learning opportunities that significantly improved student engagement and academic success.
During the Covid-19 lockdowns, Andrea became a job creator when her fledgling "forest-to-table" jam business, Freedom Fruits, gained an enthusiastic following on the strength of her unique and unusual flavors and emphasis on quality.
Whether managing educational programs, writing impactful stories, designing user experiences, or creating original artwork, she is known for approaching every challenge with curiosity, determination, and a commitment to meaningful results.
Andrea attributes much of her professional growth to the mentorship of her late husband, David Bond, an accomplished journalist who instilled in her the importance of integrity, along with the lifelong curiosity encouraged by her grandfather, Larry Craven. Guided by the principles of honesty, resilience, and continuous learning, she believes in paying forward her knowledge by mentoring others and encouraging them to pursue opportunities with confidence.
Outside of her professional work, Andrea has volunteered for more than 15 years as an historical re-enactor with the Greater St. Louis Renaissance Fair and actively supports children's cancer and Alzheimer's research initiatives. Through every stage of her career, she remains committed to inspiring creativity, fostering lifelong learning, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Andrea
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the mentors and family members who encouraged me to keep learning throughout my life. My late husband, an accomplished journalist in the silver mining industry, taught me the importance of integrity, strengthened my writing skills, and encouraged me to pursue freelance opportunities. My grandfather nurtured my curiosity by inspiring me to ask questions, read widely, and never stop learning. My mother has been a lifelong source of encouragement, and a living example of the value of compassion, determination, and keeping a healthy sense of humor. Their guidance, combined with my persistence and willingness to embrace new challenges, has shaped both my personal and professional journey.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to always lead with integrity. Be honest without being cruel, stay curious, and never stop asking questions. Some of my greatest opportunities came from stepping outside my comfort zone, learning new skills, and being willing to tackle challenges that others avoided. Curiosity and integrity have been the foundation of every stage of my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to believe in their abilities and never be afraid to speak their minds. Don't let intimidation keep you from pursuing opportunities, especially in industries where women may be underrepresented. Be willing to take on challenges, continue learning, and go the extra mile with genuine enthusiasm. Your unique perspective and willingness to help others can make a lasting impact.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the greatest opportunities is finding innovative ways to reconnect people with meaningful learning and authentic storytelling. In education, students benefit most from engaging, hands-on experiences that encourage curiosity and critical thinking rather than passive learning. Across journalism, design, and education, there is tremendous opportunity to use creativity and practical problem-solving to make information more meaningful, accessible, and memorable.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity is the value that guides everything I do. I believe in being honest while treating others with kindness and respect. I value curiosity, resilience, lifelong learning, and the willingness to embrace new challenges. I also believe in paying forward the knowledge I've gained by mentoring others, encouraging growth, and helping people discover confidence in themselves and their abilities.
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