Meet Erin Olm-Shipman, Donor Relations Manager

Meet Erin Olm-Shipman, Donor Relations Manager

2020-08-07
CATEGORY: Support
TAGS: Donor Relations Erin Olm-Shipman

Erin joins Starlight’s Philanthropy team with a focus on building relationships with corporate partners in support of Starlight’s annual giving, fundraising events and community engagement initiatives. Erin brings a wealth of experience and passion for the arts. A longtime Kansas City resident and nonprofit professional, Erin most recently spent five years in California as the Executive Director of the Visalia Fox Theatre. She is excited to be back in Kansas City with her partner, Abe, and two-year-old daughter, Isla.

Get to Know Erin: 

Q: What is your favorite musical theatre experience?

A: I had the incredible opportunity to attend the avant-garde opera Einstein on the Beach at Brooklyn Academy of Music in 2012. Directed by Robert Wilson with music by Philip Glass, it was totally bizarre, but beautiful, and kept me completely entranced for the entire 4 ½ hour performance.

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time? 

A: My background is in art history, so I spend a lot of time in museums and galleries – that is, when they’re not closed due to a pandemic. I’m also an avid outdoorswoman and enjoy camping, hiking, and doing just about anything near the ocean.

Q: Do you have a favorite Starlight memory?

A: When I was in high school in the late 90s, several friends and I came to see The King and I on my friend’s birthday. I remember it being so hot that we were pouring water bottles over each other’s heads, but we stuck it out because we loved the show so much. More recently, I had a blast dancing in clouds of confetti at the 2014 Arcade Fire concert!

Q: What made you want to work for Starlight?

A: I whole heartedly believe that while the arts are valuable for their ability to entertain and inspire, they also have the power to connect communities, promote healing, and incite change. Starlight is a landmark cultural institution with a long history of presenting exceptional arts experiences and impactful engagement programs, so it seemed like a perfect fit!

Q: What are your hopes and dreams for Starlight?

A: Everyone deserves equal access to the arts. Unfortunately, however, many Kansas Citians lack the necessary resources for traditional participation. Increased investment in Starlight’s community engagement programs will allow us to continue breaking down those barriers so we can better serve our community.

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