Through ArtsLab, Erin creates space to bring together arts and community leaders who strive to strengthen the role of arts in their community. Using a peer learning cohort model, Erin and her team develop and deliver curriculum and build networks to support community leaders throughout the Midwest.
As a passionate advocate for access and inclusion, Erin is also co-coordinator of Arts Midwest’s accessibility efforts as an employer, grantmaker, service organization, and event producer.
Previously, Erin built community among music educators as McNally Smith College of Music’s outreach director; created and managed grant programs at the Minnesota State Arts Board during the implementation of the historic Legacy Amendment; and supported public art commissions through the Wisconsin Arts Board’s Percent for Art program.
Erin’s roots were watered in the middle of a Central Wisconsin potato field, in an old schoolhouse where the experimental food and great music drew frequent house guests. In her free time, Erin can be found on a yoga mat or starting house projects with a crow bar that will take way too long to finish. She identifies as a fat activist.
Recent Publications
Cultivating Cultural Capacity in Smaller Midwest Communities
Areas of Expertise
Rural arts and culture, Strategic planning, Creative placemaking, Accessibility, Event planning, Evaluation, Grantmaking, Arts administration, Adult learning, Public art, Grant writing.
Education
Erin has an MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Bolz Center for Arts Administration, and a Bachelor of Music in saxophone performance from Western Michigan University.