Amanda Klein
Amanda Klein is a dedicated nonprofit leader, arts advocate, and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in philanthropy, education, and the arts. She currently serves as Administrator at The Philanthropy Connection, where she oversees grantmaking initiatives that empower women and support high-impact nonprofits across sectors. Amanda is passionate about equity, collaboration, and shifting decision-making power to those closest to the work, ensuring that programs and funding achieve meaningful, sustainable change in communities.
In addition to her work in philanthropy, Amanda is the founder of Bluebird Play, a children’s bookstore and creative play space in San Diego. Through this initiative, she highlights marginalized voices for young readers and contributes directly to local communities. Her expertise spans nonprofit leadership, community engagement, grantwriting, and program development, and she has a proven record of cultivating partnerships, managing volunteer teams, and driving measurable outcomes in both arts and social impact programs.
Amanda holds a Master of Science in Arts Administration from Boston University Metropolitan College and a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Arts from Pepperdine University. She has volunteered extensively, serving as Co-Chair of the Grants Committee at The Philanthropy Connection, a board member for The Center for Arts at the Armory, and as a performing arts instructor at the Braille Institute of America. Her commitment to equity, mentorship, and creative education has consistently fostered opportunities for growth, learning, and community enrichment across every initiative she undertakes.
• Boston University - Metropolitan College — Master of Science (M.S.), Arts Administration
• Pepperdine University — Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Theatre Arts
• Arts Administration Student Association Board
• The Philanthropy Connection
• The Center for Arts at the Armory
• Consultant — Boston University
• Reader — Read Across America, National Education Association
• Performing Arts Instructor — Braille Institute of America
• Charity Team Organizer — LA Marathon LLC
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success in the nonprofit sector to my dedication to serving the community and supporting those who are less fortunate. Helping others and creating meaningful impact has always been at the heart of my work.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is simply to keep going. Persistence and commitment are essential to making a lasting difference.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to pursue roles with organizations that align with their values and provide opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the nonprofit sector. Use your skills and position to create impact and uplift communities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values I hold most dear are helping others, compassion, and supporting children. Through my nonprofit and children’s bookstore, I strive to provide resources, such as books, to elementary schools where funding is limited, ensuring that children have the opportunities they deserve.
Locations
The Philanthropy Connection
San Diego, CA 92107