President and CEO, Broadway Grand Rapids

Meghan Distel is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in arts management, community engagement, and marketing. As the President & CEO of Broadway Grand Rapids, she drives the organization’s vision, overseeing operations, financial management, and fundraising initiatives. Meghan launched Broadway Arts Access in 2022 to break down barriers to attendance and increase accessibility to the arts in the diverse West Michigan community. She is dedicated to fostering strong, meaningful relationships with other local organizations and small businesses, ensuring the growth and vitality of the region’s cultural sector.

Meghan is also a Tony Awards® voting member of The Broadway League, bringing a voice from the region to the prestigious awards and ensuring the very best of Broadway entertainment comes to Grand Rapids. Through her leadership, passion, and unwavering dedication to the community, Meghan has created a lasting and transformative impact on the cultural landscape of West Michigan.

Meghan shares, “I believe in being transparent about my own struggles and successes, showing that growth and accomplishment often come through overcoming challenges … Success isn’t always a straight line, and sometimes the hardest part is just taking that first step. By being real and showing vulnerability, I hope to remind others that growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. I try to build confidence in women by helping them see their strengths and cheering them on as they go after what they want.”