Meet Katie Duncan, Membership Manager and Educational Outreach Coordinator at the Capitol Center for the Arts. The 35-year old Concord resident’s passion for the arts and the Concord community shines through her work. From theater stages to local lakes, Katie shares how growing up in Greater Concord shaped her path—and why she’s dedicated to giving back.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do. I work in development at an amazing nonprofit in the heart of Concord, where I am fortunate to manage the membership program and help coordinate the education series. I started at the Capitol Center for the Arts almost two years ago after deciding to make a career change from teaching. Working for this organization that is actively bringing diverse entertainment to this vibrant city and supporting other nonprofits in the region is incredibly fun and fulfilling work. I also work for local Solare Wedding Photography as an associate photographer, and I get to travel all over New England to photograph people on their special day in beautiful places!

Q: Why do you choose to live in the Greater Concord area? My family moved to Penacook when I was in preschool, and being a part of the Student Actors Program at Beaver Meadow Elementary School changed my life and opened a world of community theater that provided me with confidence and connections I never would have otherwise found. I’ve always wanted to live in and give back to this city that gave so much to me growing up. I love kayaking on local ponds, hiking the trails to check out the views of the State House and Concord Hospital, going shopping downtown, and attending events like Market Days! An hour to Boston, mountains, ocean, and full of fun people—what more could you want from a city?!?

Q: What’s your favorite part of your work day? My favorite part of working at the CCA is being part of our team on the nights when we have a show in the building because the place is bustling with excited patrons, busy volunteers, visiting artists and hard-working crew members! It’s such a privilege to see the tangible benefits of community members enjoying live performances at our venues being surrounded by some of the kindest and hardest-working folks who inspire me to be a better professional and citizen.

Q: Favorite places to be? My favorite places to be are in a theater or by the water! If I’m not performing or seeing live theater with friends, I want to be on my kayak on a local lake or swimming in the ocean. Preferably with a book in tow!

Q: Last book you’ve read? The most recent book I finished was “Onyx Storm” by Rebecca Yarros, because while I try to read a diverse collection of books, sometimes you simply need some easy escapism fantasy reads! Truly, any book recommended by a bookseller at Gibson’s Bookstore I am going to try!

Q: How did you find out about CYPN, and how has it benefited your business or you personally? I have been attending CYPN events for years (when they don't fall on theater rehearsal nights), and it’s such a great way to connect with new people I might not have the chance to meet otherwise. It’s a fun and low-stakes way to form professional friendships, learn from other folks in Concord, and spend time visiting some of my favorite local businesses! It’s easy to sometimes feel isolated with technology and the business of life, so taking time to connect in person through CYPN in a meaningful way feels truly grounding and a great benefit to Concord!

The Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce proudly hosts one of New Hampshire’s most dynamic young professional networks. The Concord Young Professionals Network (CYPN) fosters personal and professional growth for individuals in the Capital Region, primarily serving ages 18-40—though all are welcome to join. CYPN highlights emerging leaders who excel in their industries and contribute to the community. Monthly features are published in The Concord Insider. Learn more at concordnhchamber.com/impact/young-leaders or follow along on Facebook (Concord Young Professionals Network) and Instagram (@cypn).