The Foundation for the Performing Arts Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Leann Standish as executive director.
Leann Standish
Standish comes to San Luis Obispo with a track record of national success. With more than 20 years of experience working with major arts institutions, Standish joins the Foundation after most recently serving as deputy director of Perez Arts Museum Miami (PAMM).
Standish’s arrival comes as the Foundation is expanding on its mission to create more community access to the Performing Arts Center through its Student Matinee and Swanson PAC Community Access Fund programs. Her first objective will be to lead the Foundation in creating a new strategic plan, launching the Foundation into its next chapter after the successful endowment campaign of 2015.
“Leann’s background in fundraising, community leadership and strategic planning will bring significant momentum to our efforts as we continue to work towards sustaining both the PAC itself and the community access programs we support,” Board President John Rolph said. “We look forward to her building on the Foundation’s success to date, and helping us take it to the next level.”
Standish has significant experience advancing arts organizations, having worked at institutions across the country. Most recently Standish was recognized as a critical leader in the opening of PAMM’s new Herzog & de Meuron designed building located in downtown Miami. She has also served as assistant and deputy director at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts and the Indianapolis Museum of Arts and development director at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
On returning to California after starting her career in Fresno, Standish said:
“I am so happy to be moving to the Central Coast and to explore all that this beautiful area has to offer. It is an honor to be chosen to lead this Foundation into its next chapter and to work to support the Performing Arts Center in its role to bring people together to share experiences.”
“We are delighted to welcome Leann,” Search Committee Chair Maryellen Simkins, said. “She brings a great deal of warmth and collaborative spirit. I can’t wait for our community to meet her.”
Standish started in her new position on November 1 and oversees two Foundation employees, while working closely with the 13-member Board of Directors.