Marie (she/they) is a cultural worker, activist and arts administrator based out of Portland, Oregon. She has always believed in art as a force to change the world for the better - and in her role as Program Operations Manager for the Artist Leadership team, gets to carry out this vision. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, they have worked in the arts sector for almost a decade. Most recently, she worked in fundraising and development at a mental health organization, becoming an expert in database management, event production, and communications. In 2018, she earned a Master’s Certificate in Arts and Culture Strategy from University of Pennsylvania, and graduated in 2012 with a B.A. in Art History and Latin American Studies from University of San Francisco. When not working enthusiastically in the nonprofit world, they enjoy spending time traveling, reading, and playing with their 10 year old pitbull, Charlie. She also sits on the board of FreeArtsNW, empowering underserved youth through the arts and mentoring programs to develop their creativity and confidence.