April 23, 2024

Melody Kanschat

For more than 35 years Melody has worked with donors and arts organizations throughout Los Angeles on delivering high quality and sustainable art and education programming to Los Angeles audiences. She is known for her enthusiastic commitment to cultural institutions and a perspective that synthesizes a drive for excellence with a practical sensibility.

Melody came to LA as Development Director and on-air producer at public radio station KCSN (Cal State, Northridge). Three years later she navigated a 22-year stint at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) where she served in a variety of executive capacities including President and Chief Operating Officer. For the next 10 years she was Executive Director of the Getty Leadership Institute at Claremont Graduate University and a Professor of Practice in Arts Leadership.

In her private practice and as an arts supporter and board member, Melody provides management and consulting services to a variety of non-profit institutions focusing on operational stability, fundraising, strategic planning, and capital project development and management. She has served on the boards of Art Division, Arts for LA, Cornerstone Theater, MOVE LA, and the Los Angeles Associates of Save the Children.

Melody fills her time with friends and family and enjoys sailing, hiking, camping and other intrepid travels. She holds a BS degree in Radio, Television, and Motion Pictures from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.