Anne Romens is Vice President of Arts Midwest, where she leads nationally recognized programs and multi-state initiatives that strengthen the creative and economic vitality of the region. A lifelong Midwesterner, Anne brings a deep commitment to celebrating the Midwest’s creative assets and cultures.
Since joining the organization in 2009, Anne has built a track record of turning ambitious ideas into scalable, operationally sound programs—while developing high-performing teams and cross-functional systems that position the organization for long-term growth.
Anne’s portfolio spans strategy, communications, philanthropy, and research. She works closely with executive leadership to shape vision, ensure organizational alignment and momentum, and integrate data-driven decision-making across departments. She also serves as a primary staff liaison to both the Board of Directors and the region’s State Arts Agencies, helping guide governance, strategic decision-making, and fieldwide collaboration. Known for her ability to bridge strategy and execution, Anne brings a disciplined, collaborative approach to advancing mission-driven work at scale.
Previously, Anne held roles in museum leadership, higher education, and social services, giving her a broad, systems-oriented view of how institutions serve communities and create impact. Her career reflects a long-standing commitment to the role of creativity in building welcoming communities.
Anne’s leadership extends beyond her role at Arts Midwest. She previously served as Board President of Sunshine Montessori School in Minneapolis and remains active in her local community. Outside of work, Anne dabbles in the visual arts and enjoys traveling with her husband and two children.
A believer in the power of connection, she loves a good coffee chat, both in-person and virtual. You can connect with her on LinkedIn.
Download Anne’s headshot (Photo Credit: Michael Wellvang)
