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A new chapter for Executive Director Laura Zabel

Press, Stories

After 21 years of leading Springboard for the Arts, Laura Zabel announces plans to pass the baton to a new Executive Director.

April 8, 2026
By Springboard for the Arts

We have big news to share: Executive Director Laura Zabel will be transitioning out of her role after 21 years of leadership. While we’ve prepared a formal announcement, it wouldn’t be Springboard without an artist’s touch. Illustrated by Minnesota-based artist Sophie Wang.

Illustration of Laura Zabel sitting at a desk saying, “After 21 years at Springboard for the Arts, it’s time for me to pass the baton to a new Executive Director.”
Illustration of Laura Zabel surrounded by flowers and holding a watering can while saying, “For me, this transition is an investment in the long-term durability of Springboard and an opportunity to pursue new (but still related!) goals and dreams.”
Illustration of Laura Zabel sitting with a group of people at a big table with paper, scissors, and other art supplies. A speech bubble reads, “Like most things Springboard does, we’re not going about this in a traditional way. And I’m so grateful for that. After nearly a year of planning, in July I’ll be moving to a new position leading some national projects that we’ve started at Springboard (more on that later!)”
Illustrations of people singing in a circle, hands holding a whistle, a person playing the trumpet, and a person screen printing a sign with a monarch butterfly and a sign that says ICE OUT. Text reads, “I never imagined this transition would take place during a federal occupation and the community crisis we are experiencing. Alongside my fear, rage, and heartbreak, I am so proud to be a part of Minnesota’s creative community.”
Illustration of a group of people holding candles, carrying signs that say “We keep us safe” and “ICE OUT,” and a large loon puppet. Text reads, “Artists have been on the frontlines of this crisis and are vital to the safety, repair, and healing of our communities. This is what we mean when we say artists are essential.”
Illustration of hands planting and watering a tree sapling. Text reads, “Artists help us imagine the future that we need and deserve—a future that is just, equitable, interdependent, resilient, rooted in creativity and connection.”
Illustration of a circle of people sitting outside, watching an instructor who points to a sign that says “Work of Art: Together.” Text reads, “Springboard’s commitment to artists and our communities is unwavering. Our work, including our work to respond and support the emergency needs of our community, will continue undeterred and uninterrupted.”
Illustration of Laura Zabel adding stars across a map of the U.S., with speech bubbles saying, “I am more certain than ever that the bedrock local organizations—the hubs and homes for artists that exist across the country—are doing the work that will help us build a better future for our communities. This is why we launched the Creative Change Coalition, and this is the work and the future I will be building. I’ll still be part of Springboard’s ecosystem of care for creativity and culture, but my work will look different.”
Illustration of the staff of Springboard for the Arts smiling together around a photo stand in front of the Saint Paul capitol that says, “Artists are Essential.” A text bubble reads, “I’m thrilled that this creates an opening for new leadership, vision, and skills at Springboard. Nothing matters more to me than the durability of this organization. One of my touchstones over the last 21 years is the idea that a nonprofit belongs to the community and that the role of the staff is to steward the mission towards its next chapter”.
Illustration of kids and adults painting a mural together. Text reads, “Our incredible board has established a search committee and will be sharing updates as the process takes shape. Springboard’s values of collaboration, equity, and abundance will be embedded in the search every step of the way.”
Illustration of a joy marshall leading a parade of people wearing costumes and holding flags that say “joy.” Text reads, “It has been an honor, and my joy, to lead Springboard for 21 years. I truly don’t have the words to express how grateful I am for the opportunity to tend and grow this ecosystem of support for creativity and culture.”
Illustration of Laura Zabel standing with two people in air dancer costumes in front of Springboard for the Arts. Text reads, “Thank you to every artist, partner, and community member who has been a part of this journey. Thank you for your trust, care, and support. Here’s to what’s next.”
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