Leading Through Change & Building for the Future
When Erika Atkins stepped into her role as Executive Director of Bloomingdale School of Music in September 2020, the organization was navigating the immense challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The uncertainty of that time shaped her early leadership, pushing her to develop a strategic, forward-thinking approach to ensure Bloomingdale’s resilience and long-term success.
By 2021-2022, Erika led a collaborative effort with the community to create a strategic plan, which resulted in the ROADMAP 2027 as a guiding framework to strengthen and expand Bloomingdale’s impact. In addition to working with Bloomingdale’s dedicated leadership, staff and faculty to sustain the school’s programming through and beyond the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, one of her proudest achievements has been securing $1.5 million in capital improvement and infrastructure funding.
Balancing Growth & Sustainability
As Bloomingdale continues to deepen and expand its programming, Erika is focused on ensuring that work is sustainable—not just for the programs but also for the infrastructure supporting them. Setting up systems for communication with the community has been a key focus to help families, staff, faculty, and board alike understand why changes are happening, how they will be implemented, and how short-term adjustments will lead to long-term success.
Looking ahead, Erika envisions Bloomingdale continuing to thrive as a hub for accessible, high-quality music education, strengthening partnerships, and fostering young artists’ leadership. The school’s 60th anniversary benefit, “Generations,” at Lincoln Center on April 1 will be a landmark celebration of Bloomingdale’s history and future.
A Voice in the Nonprofit and Arts Education Sectors
Beyond her work at Bloomingdale, Erika is an influential thought leader in the nonprofit and arts education sectors. She has shared her insights on diversity, equity, and inclusion, strategic leadership, and nonprofit growth through various publications, including:
“Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: A Collective Responsibility” – Creative Generation (2023)
“Leadership in Arts Education” – ARTS Blog (2019)
Her contributions to these conversations reflect her dedication to shaping the future of nonprofit leadership and arts accessibility.
The CALO Experience: A Space for Growth & Reflection
For Erika, CALO has provided an invaluable space for connection, reflection, and leadership growth. She says, "I would describe CALO as a community of practice, where leaders receive support and refine their leadership styles, problem-solving approaches, and long-term vision. The ability to hear from peers facing similar struggles and successes has been one of the most valuable aspects of my experience."
As a forum moderator, she has gained new insights: “Stepping into the moderator role has given me a new perspective on facilitating meaningful discussions and ensuring that our conversations remain focused and productive.”
She looks forward to continuing conversations on nonprofit growth, leadership transitions, and strategic planning, while also exploring ways to better engage members balancing full plates.
A Vision for Impactful Leadership
Erika’s journey reflects a deep commitment to breaking down barriers to access in culture, education, and improved quality of life for all and sustaining that work through strategic leadership and community engagement. Her ability to navigate uncertainty, drive financial sustainability, and lead with intention has positioned Bloomingdale School of Music for an even stronger future.
Through her work, Erika is ensuring Bloomingdale’s success and paving the way for the next generation of young artists and nonprofit leaders.
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