Q&A with KPA President and CEO Kim Baker

While we’re social distancing, wearing masks and doing everything we can to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, many of our downtown neighbors beginning to return to work downtown. We at the Louisville Downtown Partnership miss you and are excited to see you as businesses and restaurants begin reopening. Currently, our Downtown Ambassadors are hard at work making sure downtown is clean and beautiful as you return.  

In the meantime, we’re checking in with some of our neighbors to see how they’re doing and what they missed the most about downtown.  This week we checked in with Kim Baker, President and CEO of Kentucky Performing Arts.  

Downtown Neighbors: Q&A with KPA President and CEO Kim Baker

Q:  What’s been most surprising thing you miss about downtown during the Covid-19 shutdown?

I miss the energy that people bring to downtown.  I miss the busloads of kids pouring into our lobby.  I miss running into friends and colleagues who I often see in and around the Kentucky Center.  You never know who you’re going to run into downtown — it’s one of my favorite parts of spending time in the heart of the city.

Q:  What are you most looking forward to when normal events and activities resume?

I’m really excited to be able to walk across the street to take a spin class at Wel.  Likewise, I really miss meeting friends for a post-ride bourbon at Down One. 

Q: Now that restaurants have started reopening, what is your favorite spot to grab lunch or coffee?

Often my day is too busy for anything but a quick bite, but I’m looking for a nice long lunch at Vincenzo’s. 

Q: In more normal times, what’s your go to spot downtown to pick up a gift for a friend or loved one?

I love browsing for Kentucky made pieces from the KMAC Shop.  They have such unique, beautiful things that are always a delight to give and get. 

About Kim Baker

– Kim is a strong and dynamic leader in the arts community, with extensive experience in the areas of arts administration and theatre management, communications, programming, and development. She became President & CEO of The Kentucky Center in 2014.

https://www.kentuckyperformingarts.org/about-KPA/executive-staff