Live Arts Toledo has appointed Michael Downing as Interim Vice President of Development, effective immediately. Downing, a Toledo native with nearly four decades of nonprofit fundraising experience, succeeds Brett Loney, who served in the role for seven seasons before accepting the presidency of Adopt America Network.

During Loney’s tenure, Live Arts Toledo more than doubled its fundraising revenue. President and CEO Zak Vassar cited Downing’s deep roots in Toledo’s nonprofit sector and noted that Downing previously mentored Loney, providing continuity during the transition. Downing also assisted with the feasibility study that helped launch Live Arts Toledo’s Arts in Motion capital campaign, which supported the conversion of the historic Masonic Temple on Heatherdowns Boulevard into the Toledo Center for Live Arts. That facility opened in 2025.

Downing’s career spans roles at the Toledo Zoo, St. John’s Jesuit High School, Notre Dame Academy, and consulting firm Schultz and Williams. He will lead fundraising strategy and aid in recruiting a permanent VP of Development. Live Arts Toledo is the parent organization of the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Ballet, and Toledo Jazz Orchestra.

Source: Live Arts Toledo