Bonner Odell

Associate Director of Development

FAVORITE SHAKESPEARE PLAY:

As You Like It

FAVORITE SHAKESPEARE QUOTE:

“The fool doth think he is wise, but the wise man knows himself to be a fool.” – Touchstone, As You Like It

BIOGRAPHY:

Bonner Odell is a seasoned nonprofit professional with more than 20 years of experience in arts administration, including fundraising, grant writing, donor engagement, public relations, and marketing. Her work has included securing and managing grants from federal, state, and private sources, as well as building partnerships with major donors to maximize the impact of transformative programs. She finds joy in connecting passionate supporters with meaningful ways to champion the performing arts and arts education.

Bonner moved to the Shenandoah Valley in 2020 from the San Francisco Bay Area, where she served as editor of In Dance and wrote about the local dance scene for SF Weekly and other publications. In California, she held roles with three nationally acclaimed arts nonprofits—Dancers’ Group, Luna Dance Institute, and the Center for Community Arts. She has taught dance, theater, mind/body movement, and writing in a wide range of settings, including the California State University system and performing arts organizations on both coasts.

Bonner continues to apply her passion for writing and education as the founder of The Writer’s Well, which offers creative writing classes in Waynesboro. She holds a B.A. in Literature & Language from UNC-Asheville and an M.A. in Dance from Mills College. She is thrilled to work among the bright minds and creative spirits at the American Shakespeare Center to help strengthen its remarkable capacity for impact.