Describe your title and role at Pacific Chamber Orchestra (PCO)

Development and Communications Manager – I am responsible for planning, managing, and executing all communications and promotional efforts working in conjunction with the PCO marketing team and reporting to our Director and Conductor, Lawrence Kohl. My other areas of focus include developing original content, audience/patron engagement, and donor relationship-building; cultivating new grant and partnership opportunities; identifying and implementing ways to sustain and build new audiences; and promoting concerts, fundraising events, educational outreach efforts, and the PCO brand.

What is the best thing about working for PCO?

This position came along at just the right time in my life, and offers a unique opportunity to expand my horizons by blending together my marketing and business background, proven nonprofit leadership experience, and a keen interest in music. I enjoy taking on a wide variety of activities, having a flexible work schedule, and making a tangible impact on my local community through my involvement with an organization which has successfully educated and entertained audiences for over three decades.

What is your greatest strength as a business professional?

I can share what one of my former colleagues and a trusted mentor had to say about me: “She not only lowers everyone’s stress level with her rock-solid reliability; she makes everyone around her better with her impeccable organization. You want Leslie appointed to your committee. You feel like you have hit the jackpot if that happens, because she’s going to get everyone on the same page and on an even keel.”

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Daily walks with our rescue dog Harry, reading, Pilates, watching hoops, and family time, especially when we get to spend some time with our college-age young adults!

Fun fact about yourself?

From a very young age, my mother instilled in me a deep appreciation of the performing arts, especially when it comes to traditional classical music. In fact, she encouraged me to take violin lessons and I actually played 1st violin in my elementary school orchestra!

In your opinion, why should people support this organization and attend a PCO event? 

If you seek an exquisite concert experience, due to the passionate artistry of Maestro Lawrence Kohl and an ensemble of professional musicians, the engaging and versatile repertoire of a chamber orchestra, performed in intimate and conveniently located venues, then you will not want to miss out on joining our growing list of supporters.