About
A proven strategist, resourceful nonprofit leader, and passionate educator, Leslie Donaldson has spent her administrative career focused on strengthening the work of communities, creative entrepreneurs, and the arts. Known as a results-driven change agent, Leslie has developed and led a number of complex initiatives in creative placemaking, community engagement, strategic planning, fund development, grants management, program development, and event planning. In each of her roles, she has grown engagement and program revenue through strategic, data-driven efforts. Additionally armed with strong communication, project management, and detailed organizational skills, Leslie has also mentored countless organizations and individuals in building their own successful creative opportunities.
As an artist, Donaldson continues to explore her creative practice. Her work is often inspired by local identity, design, found objects, and memory and driven by her passion for symbols, systems, and patterns.
Professional Experience
Director of the Kirk Newman Art School | Kalamazoo Institute of Arts
June 2023 - Present
Chief Executive Officer | Commongrounds Cooperative
June 2022 - May 2023
Assistant Teaching Professor Master of Arts Management | Carnegie Mellon University
August 2018 - May 2022
Visiting Assistant Professor of Arts Management | Michigan State University
August - December 2008
Director of Engagement | Interlochen Center for the Arts
September 2015 - August 2018
Director of the College for Creative Arts | Interlochen Center for the Arts
September 2013 - August 2017
Visiting Assistant Professor of Color & Design | Michigan State University
August 2008 - December 2008
Executive Director | Arts Council of Greater Lansing
November 2005 - September 2013
Director of Arts Programs | City of East Lansing
December 2001 - November 2005
Business Partner and Curator | The Art Apartment, LLC
March 2000 - December 2002
Fine Arts Coordinator | East Lansing Recreation & Arts
April 1999 - December 2001
Email leslieadonaldson@gmail.com