Brett Ashley Crawford

Brett Ashley Crawford, PhD is an Associate Teaching Professor at Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy, serving as Faculty Chair for the Master of Arts & Entertainment Management programs. She holds a PhD in Theatre History and Criticism from the University of Maryland, with prior roles as Managing Director at Imagination Stage, Rep Stage, and St. Bart’s Plahouse, and stage manager for over 100 productions.

• Education: BS (Theatre, Northwestern University), MFA (Arts Management, Texas Tech University), PhD (University of Maryland)

Her research focuses on technology integration in the arts, nonprofit leadership, and digital transformation. Key works include Raising the Curtain (2024) and studies on AI in public art engagement and digital fundraising pathways. She directs the Arts Management and Technology Laboratory, exploring tech solutions for cultural institutions.

Teaching includes courses on arts enterprise structures, performing arts operations, and technologies transforming the arts. Professional engagements span theatre production management, arts marketing, and international lectures at venues like the University of Helsinki and UC Santa Cruz.