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George Mason University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts has named Katharine Laidlaw as its new director of marketing and communications. An Emmy Award-winning producer and experienced arts marketing leader, Laidlaw joins Mason Arts following senior leadership roles at nationally recognized cultural and arts education institutions.
In her new role, Laidlaw will lead integrated marketing, advertising, and communications strategies across Mason Arts, supporting CVPA’s seven academic units, the Center for the Arts and Hylton Performing Arts Center, Mason Exhibitions, and a wide range of performances, academic programs, community engagement initiatives, and special events. She will also provide strategic leadership for branding, public relations, audience development, digital communications, and media relations.
“Katharine stood out throughout our extensive national search as an exceptional strategic communicator and collaborative leader,” said Rick Davis, dean of George Mason University’s College of Visual and Performing Arts. “Her experience at some of the country’s leading arts and arts education institutions, combined with her deep understanding of the value of the arts as a community asset, makes her an outstanding addition to Mason Arts. I am delighted to welcome her to our leadership team as we continue to strengthen Mason Arts’ profile and advance our mission.”
Laidlaw comes to George Mason with a background in strategic communications, brand development, enrollment marketing, audience engagement, and institutional advancement. Her previous leadership roles include positions at Spoleto Festival USA, Interlochen Center for the Arts, and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She is also the founder of Culture Electric, a consultancy that advises mission-driven organizations on strategy and messaging.
“I am honored to join George Mason and champion the essential role of the arts at one of our nation’s most innovative public research universities,” said Laidlaw. “I look forward to partnering with Dean Davis and the talented Mason Arts team to amplify creative impact across our community and elevate George Mason as a national leader in arts education and cultural engagement.”
Laidlaw holds an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a bachelor’s degree from Davidson College.