James Baudoin
General Manager 1988-1997
As the Chandler Center for the Arts prepared to open its doors, James Baudoin played a defining role in shaping the institution’s early identity and operational foundation. Serving as the Center’s first General Manager, Baudoin guided the transition from architectural blueprints to a fully functioning performing arts venue, laying the groundwork for one of Chandler’s most significant cultural assets. His leadership spanned the Center’s formative years, during which he collaborated with the City of Chandler, the Chandler Unified School District, arts organizations, and community stakeholders to establish programs, build patron services, and coordinate the Center’s initial performance seasons.
Baudoin’s expertise in arts facility management and theater planning ensured that the new venue opened with a strong operational framework and a clear artistic vision. His work helped position the Chandler Center for the Arts as a regional destination for performance, creativity, and cultural expression. After his tenure at CCA, Baudoin continued to apply his leadership and planning skills nationally, contributing to the development of performing arts venues and cultural institutions.
Katrina Pappas
General Manager 1998-2014
Katrina Pappas’ connection with the Chandler Center for the Arts began in 1988, when she joined the organization as an intern, just before its grand opening. She quickly became an integral part of the Center’s operations and artistic life. In 1989, she was promoted to Patron Services/Events Coordinator, a position she held until 1998, when she became General Manager.
As General Manager from 1998 to 2014, Pappas directed a staff of 30 and oversaw more than 100 volunteers, managing a combined budget of $2.9 million, including funding from the City of Chandler, the Chandler Unified School District, and the Chandler Cultural Foundation. She guided the Center through significant growth, broadening programming, strengthening community partnerships, and expanding arts education initiatives that reached students and families across the region.
Pappas led more than $7 million in capital improvement projects, secured over $1 million in grants and sponsorships, and implemented online ticketing improvements that increased affordability and convenience for patrons. She served as ex officio President of the Chandler Cultural Foundation, the nonprofit's programming and fundraising arm, managing all Foundation affairs and collaborating closely with its board of directors.
Known for her thoughtful leadership and commitment to accessible arts experiences, Pappas enhanced attendance, diversified the Center’s offerings, and solidified its reputation as a key cultural institution in Chandler. Her tenure reflects a career dedicated to nonprofit arts leadership, community engagement, and the development of a welcoming, sustainable arts organization.
Michelle Mac Lennan
General Manager 2014 - 2026
Michelle Mac Lennan's career with the Chandler Center for the Arts (CCA) spans more than two decades. She first joined the organization in 1999 as Patron Services Coordinator and later become the Assistant Manager in 2005 before becoming General Manager in 2014. In 2019, Mac Lennan was named Cultural Arts Manager for the City of Chandler, overseeing visual arts in addition to the CCA's performing arts venue.
Under her leadership, the CCA's assets increased from $2.3 million in 2014 to more than $10 million in 2026 by expanding box office operations and earned revenue strategies. This allowed the Center to invest in developing artists, an artist-in-residence program, and the development of Black, Hispanic, and intergenerational audiences and events.
Mac Lennan spearheaded the Center's food and beverage program, including the acquisition of a liquor license. She also oversaw numerous capital improvement projects, including The Gallery at CCA and box office spaces, lobby and restroom upgrades, facility signage and wayfinding enhancements, digital and sound system upgrades, and accessibility features including a U-Lift.
Known for her collaboration, Mac Lennan was not only the General Manager of the CCA, but also the President of the Chandler Cultural Foundation, President of the Arizona Presenters Alliance, Cultural Arts Manager for the City of Chandler, and a mentor to dozens of leaders. She has built trust, nurtured talent, and created a space where creativity and connection thrive. Her leadership has shaped the CCA in lasting ways that will continue to inspire the Center's work.
The Stories That Shape Us
Conversations with leaders about the people, cultures, and partnerships that make Chandler Center for the Arts a gathering place for the entire community.