Bio

Development and Legacy Project Manager

Laura Pancoast provides support to the staff and faculty by connecting with individuals, businesses, and foundations to support the Academy’s mission and programs. In addition, Laura manages annual events with Academy President and Founder Aaron Stern, honoring the Academy's history with Leonard Bernstein. Laura is passionate about finding sources to help sustain organizations that have the power to be positive agents of change in the world.

Trained as a classical vocalist, Laura was immediately drawn to the Academy’s history with Leonard Bernstein and the ingrained goal to bring beauty and harmony to those who need it most through the outlets of art, education, story-telling, and transformational leadership. The daughter of former park rangers and believer in the healing power of the natural world, the Seton Legacy Project also held inspiration for Laura. She is continually inspired by and grateful for the opportunity to serve through the roles of development and fundraising to build on more interpersonal relationships, offering the Academy and its teachings to a broader audience with opportunities for growth and transformation.

Prior to the Academy, Laura served as the Development and Marketing Assistant at the Santa Fe Desert Chorale. Laura has also held arts administration positions and internships with Fargo-Moorhead Opera, Central City Opera, and was the Assistant to the Director of the University of New Mexico Opera Theatre.

Laura Pancoast holds a B.M. in Vocal Performance from Concordia College and a M.M. in Voice from the University of New Mexico and has held fellowships with the Sphinx Organization in Detroit, MI and The Grants Collective in Albuquerque, NM. Laura is also a member of the Young Professionals Advisory Committee for the Santa Fe Animal Shelter.