Kathleen Allen

Kathleen Allen has dedicated her career to advancing equitable access to high quality arts education and supporting arts educators and learners. Prior to Gage, she served as Executive Director of Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra (SYSO), where she professionalized much of the organization’s operations, built a high-functioning staff team, and expanded community partnerships. She spent 15 years as an art museum educator in Boston, Atlanta, and Seattle. As an arts advocate, she has testified on the impact of arts education to local, county, and state legislators, has served on the board of ArtsEd Washington and as an advisor to ArtsFund’s Community Partners Network. Kathleen received a bachelor’s degree in Art History at Vassar College, a Master Degree in Education from Harvard University, and holds certificates in program evaluation and non-profit financial management. 

Art has always been about learning. For Kathleen, the study of art history was opening a door learning about range of subjects including world culture, politics, science, psychology, and other art forms. Through art making the learning is also about oneself, stretching one's creative capacity, being self-reflective and introspective, and developing empathy and respect for others. 

Contact: Allen.k@gageacademy.org