Ashley Magnus
- ACPA Executive Director since March 2023
Ashley began her career at Utah Symphony | Utah Opera as Production Coordinator for the opera department, and went on to hold several leadership positions in events and development, including the role Director of Corporate Partnerships. She holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Utah, and specializes in business strategy, project management, and the building of constructive community, individual, and institutional partnerships.
In 2013, she was selected to participate in Opera America’s Leadership Intensive, a highly competitive and unique industry program that has produced many of the opera industry’s top leaders. In 2015, she joined Chicago Opera Theater, where she was most recently the Edlis Neeson General Director. Under her leadership, COT received a $500,000 three year grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to support the Vanguard Emerging Composer program, developed seven world premiere operas, and received the largest gift in COT’s history; $2.25 Million over five years to support and sustain the future of the organization and name the Music Director position from the Elizabeth Morse and Elizabeth Morse Genius Charitable Trusts.
Ashley was named one of 2019's Musical America's Top 30 Professionals in the Performing Arts; a prestigious arts publication that highlights movers and shakers in the performing arts industry. She was more recently featured in NewCity Stage’s Players 50 for 2022; an annual list honoring artists, leaders, and organizations for their contributions to the arts in Chicago.
“The performing arts are essential to a thriving and connected community - and The Acorn has such a rich history of bringing world-class artistry to Harbor Country,” said Magnus. “I am so thrilled to join the leadership team here at The Acorn. I look forward to working closely with the board and staff to expand on their incredible programming and community initiatives.”