We are delighted to share the promotion of Amber Burns from Community Impact Specialist to Community Impact Director at the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. With deep-rooted experience in arts education, community engagement, and grant management, Amber has been an invaluable asset to the foundation. Her promotion reflects the impact she has already made and the visionary leadership she will continue to provide in this new role
A History of Building Community Connections
Amber joined the community foundation in 2022, demonstrating exceptional skills in maintaining and building relationships with donors, volunteers, community partners, and students. She has collaborated across departments to implement forward-thinking policies, managed over 80 scholarship programs with 20 committees, and actively participated in community meetings and fostered meaningful partnerships.
Prior to her role at the community foundation, Amber served as the Artistic Director of Family Theatre & Education Programming at Duluth Playhouse, where she managed productions and year-round arts education. Her leadership extended to establishing a sensory-friendly theater season, reflecting her passion for inclusion and accessibility. Amber’s career also includes time as a dance and theater instructor, AmeriCorps member, and fine arts teacher at Marshall School.
Leadership & Community Engagement
Amber has been a prominent leader in the local arts scene, seamlessly blending creativity with community impact. As highlighted in Destination
Duluth, her journey reflects a strong commitment to making art both accessible and meaningful. She has held key leadership positions with the MN State Arts Board and the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, among others, where she has evaluated grants and advanced initiatives that empower artists and strengthen local communities.
In addition to her leadership, Amber is an active dance instructor with the 218 Dance Project and Minnesota Ballet, and she has choreographed over 20 local musical productions since 2022. Her talents also extend into the visual arts, with recent exhibitions such as Northern Spirits and Restoring Hope.
What's Next
As Director of Community Impact & Partnerships, Amber will lead the foundation’s efforts to foster strategic partnerships, ensure the success of large-scale initiatives, and deepen community relationships. Her comprehensive understanding of grant evaluation and community development will guide her as she oversees the foundation’s grant and scholarship programs.
“Amber’s passion for community engagement, coupled with her experience, artistic vision and leadership skills, makes her the perfect fit for this role,” said Shaun Floerke, CEO & President of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. “We are thrilled. Amber will lead with creativity and heart, building stronger connections and driving impactful change throughout our community.”