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Leah Dixon
Director of Individual and Planned Giving at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts
Professional Background
Leah Dixon is a dedicated arts and culture professional with a wealth of experience that spans multiple sectors, including archaeology, education, corporate relations, and development. Currently, she serves as the Director of Individual and Planned Giving at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts, where her expertise in fundraising and community engagement serves to foster a deeper connection between the arts and the community. Leah’s passion for the arts underscores her commitment to enhancing cultural experiences through diverse programming and individual donor relations.
In her previous roles, Leah made significant impacts at the Science Museum of Minnesota. As the Curie Society Manager, she crafted unique donor experiences and managed engagement strategies that increased participation and benefits for members. In her role as Corporate Relations Specialist, she successfully cultivated partnerships with local businesses, identifying shared goals and establishing initiatives that aligned with the museum's mission. Leah’s foundational skills began as an Accounting Coordinator at the museum, where she honed her financial management abilities.
Beyond her contributions to museum culture, Leah has an extensive background in archaeology. She started her career as a Field Archaeologist with both Scholl and Madson and 106 Group, where she applied her academic background while working on diverse excavation and research projects. This experience enriched her analytical skills and introduced her to team collaboration, project logistics, and historical research. Leah's time as a Project Operations Coordinator at Pearson VUE allowed her to further develop her organizational skills and project management techniques, preparing her for leadership roles in nonprofit organizations.
Education and Achievements
Leah earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Archaeology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where she developed her passion for history and cultural preservation. Through her education, she gained expertise in understanding human societies, cultures, and historical contexts, which continue to inform her approach to donor engagement and relationship building in the arts sector. This strong educational foundation in archaeology has equipped her with research and analytical skills that translate well into her current role in development.
In addition to her formal education, Leah has been actively involved in various community organizations and initiatives. Her strong leadership abilities and proactive approach to problem-solving have earned her a respected reputation in the arts and nonprofit community. Her commitment to fostering supportive relationships among peers and stakeholders is evident in her community engagement efforts.
Notable Achievements
Leah's journey through the intersections of archaeology, nonprofit management, and the performing arts exemplifies her versatile skill set and dedication to impacting culture and education positively. Among her notable achievements:
- Successfully increased donor engagement by implementing innovative strategies at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts.
- Developed unique education and outreach programs during her tenure at the Science Museum of Minnesota, enhancing overall visitor experiences.
- Strengthened corporate partnerships that resulted in long-term support for community education initiatives.
- Contributed to vital archaeological projects that underscored the importance of preserving history and cultural heritage.
Leah Dixon's diverse career is a testament to her adaptability and leadership capabilities within both nonprofit environments and educational settings. Her combination of archaeological expertise and passion for the arts greatly informs her ability to create meaningful connections among audiences and stakeholders. Leah continues to be a driving force in her current role, working tirelessly to ensure that the performing arts flourish in her community with a focus on sustainable funding and strategic growth.
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