The Lowell Milken Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofits at UCLA School of Law hosted the half day conference "Nonprofit Arts: Creative Leadership in Uncertain Times" - a powerful gathering of artists, advocates, and nonprofit leaders working at the intersection of arts and social impact. From policy to practice, our incredible speakers shared how the arts can shape civic life, drive innovation, and foster belonging across communities. We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us for this day of thoughtful dialogue and collaboration. Thank you to our speakers, Kristin Sakoda, Rose Chan Loui, Casey Summar, Douglas Mirell, Ellen Aprill, Ricky Abilez, MPA, and Jessie Kornberg for bringing your insight and vision to this event and to all who continue to advance the role of the arts in public life.

Event Details

Thursday, May 15, 2025

8:00 AM - 2:00 PM

UCLA Carnesale Commons, Palisades Ballroom

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Sessions

State of Nonprofit Arts

Kristin Sakoda, Director, Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture

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Impact of Executive Orders

Rose Chan Loui, Founding Executive Director, Lowell Milken Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofits

Casey Summar, Managing Director, Law Firm for Nonprofits

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The First Amendment and the Arts

Douglas Mirell, Partner, Nolan Heimann

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Advocacy by Nonprofits and Foundations

Ellen Aprill, Senior Scholar in Residence, UCLA Law Lowell Milken Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofits

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Arts for LA Advocacy Report

Ricky Abilez, Director of Policy & Advocacy, Arts for LA

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Keynote - Maurice Salter Endowed Lecture in Nonprofits and Philanthropy

Jessie Kornberg, President and CEO, Skirball Cultural Center

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Event Testimonial

Attending UCLA Law’s “Nonprofit Arts: Creative Leadership in Uncertain Times” conference was exactly what I needed. Instead of offering vague anecdotes about economic instability, the sessions provided grounded legal and strategic frameworks that directly shaped our fundraising approach at the LA Chamber Orchestra. The insights were sobering, yes—but they also helped us have honest, focused conversations about where we’re headed. I appreciated how clearly the presenters laid out complex topics; nothing felt abstract or out of reach. The whole event was thoughtfully produced and deeply relevant to the realities we’re navigating. I left feeling more clear-eyed, better informed, and more empowered to lead with integrity.