CEZ Names New Executive Director
Other changes are underway as the CEZ transitions from an all-volunteer, board-led organization to paid leadership under a new executive director, a role that has been vacant since 2016. Angela Casselton, who started with the CEZ as a fundraising consultant and project coordinator for the inaugural Chroma Zone Mural & Art Festival in 2019, and most recently oversaw the 2020 Summer Mural Project, will become the CEZ’s Executive Director starting November 1.
“You had me at murals,” Angela said with a laugh. Her background includes museums, media and a lifelong love for the arts. With degrees in communications and studio arts, Angela started her career in curatorial at the Plains Art Museum in Fargo (formerly in Moorhead) and in the department of Africa, Oceania and the Americas at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. She left the arts in 1998 to begin a two-decade-long run in marketing and sponsorship at the Star Tribune Media Company and the Minnesota Historical Society.
It was during her time as an independent consultant that she was introduced to the Creative Enterprise Zone.
“While I had a connection to the artist studios at the Dow Building years ago, it had been a while since I spent time here. But even back then, you knew there was something special about this place. This unique mix of creativity and possibility among centuries-old industry and enterprise. I have been so impressed with the pace of change and growth. It’s really exciting.“
She added, “It has been rewarding to help the CEZ become more visible through the mural festival, and I’m equally excited by the work of the real estate team. Catherine Reid Day is a mentor and friend. I look forward to continuing her legacy, and to foster a strong and resilient community, a place of well-being and belonging.”
Angela lives in South Minneapolis with her husband and two sons, and can be reached at director@creativeenterprisezone.org.
From Catherine Reid Day, CEZ Chair and Founder
We formed the Creative Enterprise Zone during the disruptions of 2009—buildings that housed creative work and workers went into foreclosure, construction of the light rail along University Avenue, and the great recession. The organization has grown into our role as a connector and instigator, a community builder with a commitment to assisting more people and organizations to #MakeItHere.
I’m very excited to welcome new leadership to the work. Renee Spillum will lead with focus, energy and vision for our community. Angela Casselton has demonstrated her keen ability to make things happen from wrangling equipment donations for the murals to securing sponsorships and inviting people to participate, explore and enjoy our neighborhood.
I remain committed to the CEZ and our community and will continue to invoke dreams that turn into a more resilient, colorful, thriving future.
—Catherine