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Brae Blackley

Managing Director, Dance/Ballet

Professional Background

Brae Blackley is an accomplished entrepreneur and strategic leader in mission-driven organizations, with a rich background in the arts, fitness, and advocacy for equitable opportunities. Currently, she lends her extensive expertise to the Advisory Board for the Arts, specifically focusing on business development for the global dance and ballet segment. Her leadership has been pivotal in shaping the landscape of dance and ballet, showcasing her commitment to arts and cultural engagement.

Before her current role, Brae made significant contributions as the Managing Director of External Affairs for The Washington Ballet, a time-honored ballet school and professional company with a legacy spanning 75 years. In this capacity, she was not only responsible for enhancing the organization’s visibility and reach but also for developing strategic initiatives that promote the importance of ballet and dance in the wider community.

Prior to her endeavors in the arts, Brae founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of Premier Sports Productions and the ZOOMA Women's Race Series. Under her strategic leadership, Premier Sports Productions emerged as a transformative force in the realm of fitness, while ZOOMA focused on increasing women's participation in running events, ultimately contributing to a surge in female race finishers in the U.S. Today, women account for over 60% of race finishers—a remarkable growth from the less than 40% recorded at ZOOMA's inception.

Brae's unique ability to combine creative strategy and practical solutions has made her an invaluable asset to organizations aiming to elevate their mission and outreach. Beyond her professional roles, she is a dedicated community volunteer and arts enthusiast, fueled by a desire to enhance the Washington, DC metro community through initiatives centered on fitness, education, and the arts.

Education and Achievements

Brae Blackley's educational journey has laid a strong foundation for her multifaceted career. She earned her Juris Doctor with Honors from The George Washington University Law School, equipping her with a comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks that benefit her strategic decision-making processes in various sectors.

Additionally, Brae holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. This background has honed her skills in communication and public relations, allowing her to effectively convey messages that resonate with diverse audiences.

Brae is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Engaged and Public Humanities at Georgetown University. Her thesis focuses on the critical role of dance in American culture and examines inclusive audience engagement—underscoring her commitment to equity in the arts.

Notable Achievements

  1. Leadership in Dance and Ballet Initiatives: Brae has played a crucial role in fostering growth within the dance and ballet communities, advocating for increased accessibility and inclusivity within the performing arts.
  2. Female Empowerment in Sports: Through the ZOOMA Women's Race Series, Brae successfully mobilized efforts to inspire and empower women in sports, reflected in the significant increase in female participation in races nationwide.
  3. Strategic Impact at The Washington Ballet: As Managing Director of External Affairs and Director of Strategy and Planning, Brae contributed to the strategic direction and operational excellence of The Washington Ballet, enhancing its profile within the cultural fabric of Washington, DC.
  4. Founding Premier Sports Productions: Brae's entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Premier Sports Productions, where she fostered a culture of engagement and community participation in sports events.

Community and Volunteer Work

Brae Blackley's passion for community service extends well beyond her professional work. As an avid advocate for the arts and fitness, she actively engages in volunteer opportunities that uplift her local community. By fostering connections between the arts, fitness, and education, Brae works diligently to improve the quality of life for residents in the Washington, DC metro area.

Related Questions

How did Brae Blackley develop her expertise in strategic leadership for mission-based organizations?
What inspired Brae Blackley to focus on women's participation in sports through the creation of ZOOMA Women's Race Series?
How does Brae Blackley's legal background influence her work in the arts and fitness sectors?
In what ways is Brae Blackley addressing inclusivity in audience engagement through her Master's thesis at Georgetown University?
What are some of the key initiatives Brae Blackley has implemented during her tenure at The Washington Ballet that have significantly impacted the organization?
Brae Blackley
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Location

Arlington, Virginia, United States