Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Raisch.
Hi Laura, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My path wasn’t a straight line, but it’s always been rooted in a love for community and the arts. I’ve been connected to the arts from an early age—trained in ballet and theater—and that creative foundation has stayed with me throughout my life.
I’ve had a long-standing connection to Mackinac as a summer visitor, then resident, and over time it became my home full-time, which makes this work feel even more personal and meaningful. I’ve always been drawn to the performing arts and to experiences that bring people together, which naturally led me into arts and community-focused roles.
Previously, I served as Director of Giving and Special Events for the Music Hall Center for the Arts in Detroit. About three years ago, I stepped into my role as Executive Director with the Mackinac Arts Council, and it’s been an incredibly meaningful chapter. I’ve had the opportunity to help shape programs, support artists, and create experiences that connect people to the arts in ways that feel welcoming and highly accessible.
At times, it’s been a ‘learn as you go’ journey, but one grounded in passion, hard work, and a strong belief in the value of the arts and the need for the arts in all communities.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve only been in this role for the past three years, but it’s clear that, like any long-standing arts organization, the journey hasn’t always been perfectly smooth. What I see now is an organization that has navigated evolving funding landscapes, changing audience engagement, and the challenges of sustaining the arts in a seasonal community—while staying deeply committed to its mission.
And in many ways, that mirrors art itself “without contrast, without peaks and valleys, it wouldn’t be nearly as meaningful.” What inspires me most is how the Council continues to adapt, grow, and bring the community together through the arts. Being part of that ongoing story is what makes this role so rewarding.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my role as Executive Director of the Mackinac Arts Council, my goal is to connect people to the arts in ways that feel meaningful, accessible, and memorable. That includes everything from curating programs and events to building relationships with artists, donors, visitors, and our island community.
What I’m most proud of, beyond the honor of serving in this role, is helping to expand programming and deepen engagement—finding ways to invite new audiences in while continuing to honor the traditions that make this community so special. Focusing on creating experiences, whether it’s an exhibition, a workshop, or our Music in the Park series, that bring people together and make the arts feel both welcoming and impactful.
What sets me apart is my focus on connection. I truly believe the arts are at their best when they feel personal—when people see themselves reflected in them, walk away feeling like they were part of something, and maybe even learned something new.
And most rewarding of all is seeing that connection grow—more people showing up, participating, and feeling like they belong.”
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
My advice would be to stay open and say, “yes” to opportunities, even if they don’t look exactly how you imagined. So much of this work is about relationships and being willing to learn as you go.
I also think it’s important to remember that the arts are about connection, not perfection. You don’t have to have everything figured out, what matters most is showing up and doing that with curiosity, a willingness to work hard, and a genuine love for what you’re doing.
Something I wish I knew starting out is that the behind-the-scenes work is just as important as what people see. The small details, the relationships, the consistency… that’s what really builds something meaningful over time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mackinacartscouncil.org/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mackinacartscouncil
