Arts & Culture
Leading the next evolution of ArtsQuest
Read how ArtsQuest stands on the brink of another defining chapter.
Evolution has always been at the heart of ArtsQuest. Framed by the towering blast furnaces of the former Bethlehem Steel, the site has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into the region’s premier destination for music, arts, and community celebration. Today, ArtsQuest creates opportunities for people to gather and make lasting memories.
Those memories are part of what drew President and CEO Kassie Hilgert to the organization she now leads.
“I had made so many lifelong memories going to Musikfest and Christkindlmarkt,” Kassie reflected. “I was awestruck by the idea of having even a small hand in helping create those memories for the two million people we serve each year.”
Since joining ArtsQuest in 2008, Kassie has helped guide the organization through remarkable growth by expanding programming, strengthening partnerships, and deepening community impact. She consistently emphasizes the vital role of colleagues, volunteers, sponsors, donors, and members in advancing ArtsQuest’s mission.
Now, ArtsQuest stands on the brink of another defining chapter.
“With this current capital campaign, we have the chance to evolve yet again and create transformational impact,” Kassie said. “The Re-Imagine That! Capital Campaign reflects our belief that creativity fuels community, and that investing in the arts is invaluable to the vitality of the Lehigh Valley.”
The campaign will fund transformative spaces designed to elevate the region as a destination for artists, visitors, and employers. Additions such as the ArtsQuest Creative Factory powered by PPL and the Lehigh Valley Health Network (part of Jefferson Health) Turn and Grind Shop will create more welcoming, inclusive spaces for festivals, education, and year-round programming.
Reflecting on her leadership, Kassie shared humbly: “I hope those who knew me would say, ‘She gave other people a voice and a chance to make change. This place is a little better because she was here.’ That would be nice.”
Learn more at artsquest.org.
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