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Haley Kelly
Manager of Institutional Giving at Strathmore Hall Foundation, Inc.
Professional Background
Haley Powell Kelly is an accomplished arts manager and fundraiser based in Washington D.C. With a keen understanding of the nonprofit sector and a passion for promoting the arts, she has dedicated her career to supporting artists and inspiring new creative ventures. Haley's extensive background spans various roles in the arts community, from managing institutional giving at the prestigious Strathmore Hall Foundation, Inc. to previous positions that include her Development Manager and Development Fellow roles at the same institution. Her foundation in arts management positions her as a key advocate for fair compensation for artists and educators, underlining her belief that creative professionals deserve to be recognized for their vital contributions to society.
Before firmly establishing herself in nonprofit fundraising, Haley made significant contributions to the arts landscape through diverse roles. Her career includes art handling for the renowned Smithsonian Institution and creative endeavors in event design for major companies such as Xbox. Such broad experiences provide her with a unique insight into the intersection of creativity and management, positioning her as a valuable asset within both the corporate and arts sectors.
Haley's ability to blend her creative talents with managerial skills has made her a versatile leader. Her work in theater design, ranging from the design of productions across the country to hands-on experiences in puppetry in Italy, showcases her commitment to exploring the multifaceted world of the arts. These diverse experiences contribute significantly to her insight and expertise in art management, making her a true generator of creative ventures.
Education and Achievements
Haley's educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Theatre from Northwestern University, where she nurtured her passion for the arts and theater. This foundational knowledge was further enhanced with a Master’s Degree in Arts Management from American University, equipping her with the tools to effectively navigate the nonprofit arts landscape. Additionally, she has pursued further studies at UCLA Extension, attesting to her commitment to lifelong learning and professional development.
In her educational and professional roles, she has been an exemplary fellow and mentor, notably working as the Arts Management Program Graduate Fellow and Social Media Manager at American University. Through her involvement with the Emerging Arts Leaders Symposium (EALS) as Executive Director and Advancement Coordinator, Haley has shown her dedication to fostering leadership in the next generation of arts professionals.
Her impressive accomplishments include designing for numerous theaters nationwide, showcasing her talent and versatility in stage design. Her unique experience also includes teaching high school girls the intricacies of using power tools, which not only highlights her creative spirit but also her commitment to empowering youth and promoting practical skills in the arts. Additionally, her victory in a chili cook-off adds a delightful personal touch to her diverse skill set, reflecting her love of community engagement.
Achievements
Haley Kelly has built an impressive repertoire of achievements throughout her career, driven by her unwavering passion for the arts and commitment to advocacy. With her current role as Manager of Institutional Giving at Strathmore Hall Foundation, Inc., Haley is at the forefront of securing funding vital for the sustainability and growth of artistic programs. She has effectively cultivated and maintained relationships with grantors and donors, ensuring that artists have the resources they need to thrive.
Additionally, Haley’s experience extends far beyond her current role; her earlier tenure at Strathmore Hall Foundation, Inc. equipped her with valuable skills in fundraising strategy, relationship management, and program development. In her roles as an Assistant Creative Director at Jack Morton Worldwide and as a Freelance Creative Coordinator, she further developed her capabilities in crafting impactful design experiences for diverse audiences.
Throughout her journey, Haley has demonstrated strong leadership and creative potential, making significant contributions to institutions such as the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden and the Discovery Theater, where she applied her skills in exhibition design and performance coordination. These roles reflect her wide-ranging expertise in arts management and the importance she places on facilitating engaging artistic experiences.
Beyond her formal roles in established institutions, her extensive freelance work in design and production has further solidified her creativity and adaptability. Her ability to navigate various artistic platforms ranging from theater to corporate event design showcases her versatility and innovative approach to the arts.
In conclusion, Haley Powell Kelly is a dynamic arts manager whose compassionate approach to fundraising and art advocacy has made a significant impact within the creative community. With her rich educational background and diverse professional experiences, she stands out as a leader committed to empowering artists, promoting equitable pay, and fostering artistic excellence. Her ongoing journey is not only inspiring to those within the arts sector but serves to motivate future generations of creative professionals eager to make their mark in the world. With an innate understanding of the challenges faced by artists today and a tireless dedication to forging new pathways in the arts, Haley is undoubtedly a driving force for positive change in our cultural landscape.
