MEET THE TEAM
Jennifer Carlson
Jennifer@Anthonywaynetheater.org
Jennifer L. Carlson is a nonprofit executive with more than 25 years of experience leading cultural and historic institutions. Her career has centered on strengthening mission-driven organizations through sustainable growth, community engagement, strategic partnerships, and thoughtful stewardship of historic properties.
From 2022 to 2026, Jennifer served as Executive Director of the Colonial Theatre in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, where she oversaw a dynamic program of film, live performances, and community events across the theatre’s historic campus. Under her leadership, the Colonial experienced continued growth in attendance, revenue, contributed income, and programming, while completing successful fundraising initiatives for facility improvements and new projection equipment.
Previously, Jennifer served as Executive Director of the Connecticut River Museum in Essex, Connecticut, and Wyck Historic House, Garden, and Farm in Philadelphia. In both roles, she expanded organizational capacity, strengthened community connections, and enhanced visitor experiences.
Jennifer brings a deep appreciation for cinema and the performing arts, along with a collaborative leadership style and commitment to making cultural institutions vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable community resources. She currently serves on the boards of Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens and the League of Historic American Theatres.
Executive Director
Michelle Johnson
Michelle@anthonywaynetheater.org
Michelle C. Johnson is a dedicated fundraising professional with 20 years of experience connecting donor passion to the meaningful work of non-profit institutions. She brings a genuine enthusiasm for cultivating lasting, impactful relationships built on trust and a shared vision.
Most recently, Michelle was the Associate Director of Development at People’s Light, a professional theatre in Malvern, PA. Prior to joining People’s Light in 2019, she helped advance the development goals of several organizations, including the Chester Higher Education Council, Penn State University, the Crozer-Keystone Health System and Women’s Way. Throughout her career, Michelle has been involved in numerous facets of advancement work - capital campaigns, major gift fundraising, Board administration, annual fund solicitations, legacy giving and event planning. Her leadership roles as Development Director, Campaign Manager and Event Planner have allowed her to collaborate with exceptional teams to execute small- and large-scale fundraising initiatives and complete transformational capital campaigns.
An active and enthusastic participant in her community, Michelle volunteers regularly with her children’s schools. She and her husband, Kit, are proudly raising their three sons in Wayne, PA.
Director of Development