Director of Special Events Becky Hale celebrates 10 years with KAF in February. She came to the foundation through a longtime friendship with Executive Director Chris Hansen, who reached out to her in 2016 when he was looking for someone to manage the private events department. Hale jumped at the opportunity.
During her tenure, KAF’s event venues have grown to nine dynamic spaces that host everything from weddings to nonprofit galas to corporate events and more. Hale deftly manages these events to ensure clients focus on enjoying themselves and entertaining their guests. If you’re looking to plan an event, reach out to Becky at becky@kranzbergarts.org.
What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?
I truly love my job. I have been in the industry for 36 years, and meeting new people while helping them bring their events to life feels like magic. We host so many different types of events, which keeps things exciting. Prior to working with the Kranzberg Arts Foundation, I only ever worked in single-venue environments. Now, I manage events across nine buildings, and I love the variety—it keeps my job fresh and interesting.
How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?
The revenue my department generates helps support local artists in St. Louis and contributes to the many KAF programs we offer.
What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?
I love the St. Louis Art Museum. My family and I visit about four times a year to see new exhibits and explore the artwork on display.
What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?
Every year, I travel to Bentonville, Arkansas with friends to visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. We make a whole weekend out of it, and I absolutely love it.
Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?
My favorite artists in St. Louis are DJs. I grew up in the late ’80s, going to nightclubs, and my first experiences were at places like 1227, Twist, Zone 8, Faces, and OZ. I grew up listening to Gary Mac, Marc Buxton, Mike Carol, Kevin Brock, and DJ Danny. It was amazing to be exposed to so many new sounds coming into St. Louis from all over the world.
