The Workhouse Arts Foundation, Inc. (WAF), which operates the Workhouse Arts Center, announced today that it has named Rachel Kizielewicz as its new Interim President and Chief Executive Officer. Kizielewicz, an experienced executive, artist, and strong supporter of the Workhouse, officially began her role on Monday, June 5th.

Rachel Kizielewicz comes to the Workhouse as an artist, with 20 years of experience in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. Rachel first joined the Workhouse as a member of the Board of Directors. She steps into the role of Interim President and CEO with a love for the organization and a deep commitment to its future. Believing in the Workhouse's ability to be a thriving, vibrant arts center, Rachel understands the important roles that each group of stakeholders plays in the Workhouse Arts Center’s success.

“I am honored to join WAF, where the creative energy of the artists, a committed and energized staff, a dedicated Board of Directors, Fairfax County, and a community of engaged volunteers and donors all come together to create a space that is unique and unparalleled,” Kizielewicz said.

“The Board of Directors is very excited to have Rachel Kizielewicz lead WAF at this important time in its history,” said Caroline Blanco, Chair of the Board. “Building on the successes of her predecessor, Leon Scioscia, we believe Ms. Kizielewicz is well positioned to showcase how special the Workhouse is to the people of Fairfax County, Prince William County, and beyond. We look forward to working with her as WAF prepares to grow and expand its outreach to more members of the public.”

Rachel's past experience includes serving as the founding Executive Director of the Los Alamos Community Foundation, where she led the organization to strengthen community by investing in the financial health of local nonprofits. Prior to that, Rachel co-led a venture philanthropy organization that provided funding to support the workforce reintegration of formerly incarcerated individuals. Rachel has extensive experience raising funds for nonprofits of all shapes and sizes, including conducting years of major gift fundraising at a large international university. 

As an artist, Rachel has created large-scale permanent public art through the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art. She has been a glass mosaic artist for fifteen years and is a life-long appreciator of all things creative. Rachel has a Master's degree in Philanthropy from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Richmond. She lives down the street from the Workhouse with her husband, two kids and their beloved family dog.