Live Arts Toledo appointed Michael Downing as Interim Vice President of Development on May 21. 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.

President and CEO Zak Vassar said Downing previously mentored Loney, which provides continuity during the transition. Downing assisted with the feasibility study for Live Arts Toledo’s Arts in Motion capital campaign, which funded the redevelopment of the Masonic Temple on Heatherdowns Boulevard into the Toledo Center for Live Arts. That facility opened in 2025.

Downing’s career includes positions at the Toledo Zoo, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, St. John’s Jesuit High School, Notre Dame Academy, and consulting firm Schultz and Williams. He will lead fundraising strategy and assist 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