Director of Administration and Contracts Ann McKeal celebrates her 10th anniversary with KAF this month! She first got to know Executive Director Chris Hansen through visits to Grand Center for live music, photography, and a little wine culture. “His vision and genuine enthusiasm were contagious, as was the Kranzberg family’s commitment to the neighborhood. I knew I wanted to be part of an organization that invests in artists, celebrates creativity, and helps shape the future of our community,” she says.
McKeal graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a degree in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Marketing and Advertising, along with minors in Speech Communication and Business Management.
What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?
Enjoying the fruits of our labor, of course! We’re surrounded by creativity every day, and I genuinely love working alongside such a talented and passionate team. With so many venues and programs, there’s always a performance or exhibition to discover. I love experiencing our artists’ work, running into them at Blueprint Coffee, and vibing with them at Sophie’s Artist Lounge. When I need a moment of zen, I pop upstairs to the .ZACK rooftop garden. Every day is a reminder of the vibrant community we’re helping to build.
How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?
As Director of Administration and Contracts, I work behind the scenes, collaborating closely with every department across the Foundation. My role provides the structure, support, and resources that keep things running smoothly so our teams can focus on creating extraordinary experiences for artists and audiences. While much of my work is confidential, it’s incredibly rewarding to know it helps make those experiences possible.
What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?
I love how connected our arts community is. Artists, performers, patrons, and arts organizations aren’t separate groups here – they’re neighbors, collaborators, and friends. There’s a genuine spirit of support and collaboration that allows creativity to flourish. St. Louis may not be the largest arts market in the country (yet), but its passion, authenticity, and sense of community make it truly special.
What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?
Live music is at the top of the list, from my brother riffing on his guitar to local shows, the SLSO, or a favorite national act. You better believe I’m always up for a karaoke night. I love cheering on our teams – sports are their own kind of performance art, right? Since my husband is a chef, I have a deep appreciation for the culinary arts, from exploring our city’s incredible restaurant scene to blind wine tastings with friends. When I need to recharge, you’ll find me at museums, traveling, antiquing, or discussing my latest read with my book club. Shakespeare in the Park and the Missouri Botanical Garden are favorites because they beautifully combine nature, art, music, and community. That’s one of the things I love most about St. Louis – creativity shows up everywhere. It’s all art to me!
Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?
St. Louis is overflowing with talented artists, and many of them have become dear friends over the years. The truth is, there are far too many to name, but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the incomparable Kim Massie and Tai Davis, whose spirit, impact, and artistry continue to shape our community. Their legacies live on through the countless people they inspired. Our arts community thrives when people show up: buy the ticket, visit the gallery, share an artist’s work, and tell someone about a performance you loved. Supporting artists doesn’t always require a grand gesture, sometimes it simply means being present. KAF helps make it easy by sharing upcoming events through our newsletters and website, so you can always find your next moment of inspiration.
