Kate Stadel is a dedicated community leader, arts administrator, artist, and educator with more than 20 years of experience in the arts, culture, and nonprofit sectors. As General Manager of Arts at YMCA Calgary, she leads one of the most unique arts initiatives in the Canadian YMCA movement, overseeing visual arts, performing arts, and professional theatre operations. YMCA Calgary is home to the only dedicated theatre spaces and comprehensive arts programming of their kind within a YMCA in Canada, creating opportunities for creativity, connection, and belonging for community participants.

Kate is passionate about leveraging the transformative power of the arts to strengthen communities and foster meaningful human connection. She has a proven ability to develop strategic plans that deliver meaningful results and support the growth of vibrant, inclusive arts organizations.

Beyond her professional leadership, Kate is an active artist and community builder. She has practiced pottery for more than a decade and recently began teaching, helping others discover creativity, confidence, and connection through the clay arts. She is also a licensed wedding officiant in Alberta, bringing warmth, authenticity, and a deep appreciation for meaningful human experiences to life’s most important celebrations.

In recognition of her leadership and contributions to the community, Kate was named to Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 Class of 2020. Through her work in arts leadership, education, and community engagement, Kate continues to champion the arts as a powerful force for belonging, well-being, and social connection.