The legacy of Diane Ragsdale, a visionary leader in arts and culture, will continue to resonate within the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her impact on MCAD, the arts and culture community, and the institutions she led is immeasurable. Diane’s passion, wisdom, and collaborative spirit leave an enduring mark on the landscape of cultural leadership. As we remember and celebrate her life, we also mourn the loss of a remarkable individual whose contributions will be felt for generations to come.
The arts and culture community in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and beyond mourns the sudden and profound loss of Diane Ragsdale, the Director of the Master of Creative Leadership (MACL) program at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD). At the age of 57, Diane’s untimely departure has left a void that resonates deeply within the MCAD community and the broader arts and culture realm. In her two impactful years at MCAD, Diane showcased exceptional leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on the institution’s culture.
During her tenure at MCAD, Diane Ragsdale accomplished remarkable feats as she spearheaded the development and success of the innovative MACL program. Her transformative leadership style moved mountains, earning her the admiration and respect of students, colleagues, and community partners alike. Diane’s impact went beyond administrative roles – she was a generous teacher, mentor, and a passionate advocate for collaboration, fostering a sense of unity within the MCAD community.
Vice President of Academic Affairs, Robert Ransick, fondly remembers Diane as not only a dear friend but also an inspiration to many. He highlights her profound contributions to arts and culture in the United States and underscores the immense fortune MCAD had in having her as the inaugural leader of the MACL program. Diane Ragsdale’s influence extends far beyond her time at MCAD. With a career spanning 25 years, her diverse experiences and extensive network within the arts and culture realm are a testament to her exceptional talents and collaborative skills.
Notably, from 2017 to 2020, she successfully established a Master of Arts in Arts Management and Entrepreneurship for performance-based artists at The New School, while concurrently launching a Graduate Minor in Creative Cultural Development. In 2019, Diane assumed the role of Director at the Banff Center, where she played a pivotal part in shaping a philosophy of cultural leadership focused on promoting cultural change and truth and reconciliation.
Her impactful tenure as an Andrew W. Mellon Foundation program officer for theater and dance in New York City from 2005 to 2010 allowed her to collaborate with leaders from some of the nation’s top theaters, dance companies, performing arts centers, orchestras, and opera companies.
Diane Ragsdale’s educational background reflected her commitment to a multifaceted approach in her career. Holding a BS in Psychology, a BFA in Theater, and an MFA in acting and directing, she displayed a unique blend of academic and artistic proficiency. Moreover, Diane’s pursuit of knowledge was relentless – she completed an Executive MBA summer intensive at Stanford University Graduate School of Business and was a doctoral candidate at Erasmus University in Rotterdam
