Kelly Updike
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – If you have ever been to a show at the Embassy Theatre Kelly Updike was probably smiling at you when you walked through the door.
She is the president and CEO of the Embassy and was recently honored by Greater Fort Wayner Inc. for her contributions to the city.
The Embassy released the following:
The Embassy Theatre is proud to announce that Kelly Updike, president & CEO, has been recognized by Greater Fort Wayne, Inc. (GFW) with this year’s Barb Smith GFW Inc. Service Award. The award is given in honor of former GFW board member, GFW investor and community advocate, Barb Smith, for whom the award is named.
A press release by GFW states, “In addition to her work as president and CEO of the Embassy Theatre, Kelly Updike has served nine years on the GFW Inc. board of directors. She is the current chair of the Governance Committee, has served on the Executive Committee, led GFW Inc.’s Diversity Task Force, and was instrumental in developing GFW Inc.’s diversity and inclusion pledge and member expectations.”
Kelly’s commitment to economic growth is evident not only in her service to GFW, but also in her leadership at the Embassy. During her 17-year tenure, Kelly has developed community festivals like Spring Forward Fest and large community gatherings like Fright Night. She has created and championed annual events to celebrate local artists such as Down the Line and Summer Nights at the Embassy. Under her leadership, the Embassy has hosted countless national and international performers and shows. The recent growth of the Embassy has positioned the organization to shift from a rental house to an active presenting theater.
Kelly is also attributed with accepting the challenge to keep the regional Middle Waves music festival in Allen County, also important to the economic growth of Fort Wayne as well as downtown restaurants, hotels and small businesses. She continues to lead operations at the Embassy Theatre for long-term sustainability and growth, positioning the venue as a nationally renowned theater.
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