Washington Filmworks welcomes Kate Becker, the newly appointed Director of the Seattle Office of Film + Music. Becker is wildly accomplished and her history in Seattle runs deep. As the film community gets to know her better, here are ten things to help break the ice. A warm welcome to Kate!
Kate Becker
Kate Becker was appointed director of the Seattle Office of Film and Music in February, and most recently served as a strategic advisor to the City of Seattle, focusing on nightlife, marijuana, and I-502 implementation policy. Prior to working at the City, Becker served in leadership roles at Seattle Theatre Group, Art Share LA in Los Angeles, and The New Art Center in Newton, MA. She also co-founded The Vera Project in Seattle and the Old Fire House in Redmond, WA. Becker has led the charge to raise over $15 million for five arts programs in the past decade, including three capital campaigns. She has produced multiple fundraising galas and more than 1,000 all ages shows. Becker holds a BA in Liberal Arts from Hampshire College.
TEN THINGS:
- I grew up in New England and traveled across the country with a boyfriend when I graduated from the Hampshire College film program, searching for the place we would call home. That was Seattle. I lost the boyfriend shortly thereafter, but have called Seattle home ever since.
- I have 8 brothers and sisters, and to date, 22 nieces and nephews.
- Two years ago, my husband Michael and I adopted our daughter Trin. She is now 10.
- I fly to New England at least six times a year for a family commitment that involves partial custody of my niece.
- I have founded or co-founded three separate nonprofits, including the Vera Project.
- I love running and have done more than a dozen half marathons and triathlons in the past six years. In 2012, my running style was hampered by a car accident that resulted a broken foot. This has really slowed me down, but I’m trying to get back to running, as my best ideas always come to me a few miles in.
- I have a very hard time sitting through meetings and prefer to be moving at all times.
- For the last two decades, I have held leadership positions in five separate arts nonprofits. I have a particular fondness for historic theatres, dedicated artists, and committed activists.
- James Keblas and I have been friends and colleagues for many years and I’m banking on our good relationship to carry us through this transition and transfer the work of the Office of Film and Music effectively. We are both committed to continuing the momentum that has been built and ensuring that this good work carries on and flourishes.
- While it’s been an abrupt start to my new role, I am deeply excited about taking on this new adventure as the Director of the Office of Film and Music. So many people from the film community have reached out to me in the past days and I am truly grateful for this warm welcome.