Michael Greer Appointed to Oregon Arts Commission, Sept. 9

Salem, Oregon – Michael Greer, the executive director of Oregon Ballet Theatre, has been appointed to the Oregon Arts Commission by Gov. Kate Brown. Greer brings leadership experience from both the for-profit and non-profit worlds. As a former professional dancer and experienced executive, he enjoys using his diverse background to bring new ideas and innovative solutions to the performing arts. He also currently serves on the board of the Cultural Advocacy Coalition.“We are thrilled to have Michael join the Arts Commission at this important time,” said Commission Chair Anne Taylor. “His breadth of experience as an executive and a working artist, as well as his commitment to community, diversity and innovation, will be invaluable as we embark on a new strategic planning process.” In his third season at Oregon Ballet Theatre, Greer works with community leaders to keep dance and the performing arts in the conversations surrounding community and growth. In addition to leading the organization into its fifth year of financial success, Greer’s tenure also is credited with a record numbers of patrons, students and donors. He is proud of the team at Oregon Ballet Theatre and the work they are doing to advance the organization’s mission to Share, Inspire and Connect through dance. “I am humbled to be a part of the Arts Commission,” said Greer. “Oregon is a state with a rich and diverse arts and cultural landscape and I am proud to be tasked with helping to grow and safeguard that landscape for future generations.” A native of Missouri, Greer spent the early part of his life as a dancer with stints at Interlochen Arts Academy, School of American Ballet and The Royal Ballet School. He spent six seasons with Ballet West under the direction of Jonas Kåge, performing a wide variety of soloist roles. Upon retirement from performance, he returned to higher education with studies in economics (B.A.), education (M.Ed), and business administration (M.B.A.) from Hampshire College, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and The Wharton School respectively. As a husband and father of two, Greer and his family are proud to call Oregon their home. His four-year term began Aug. 7.