Turning Over a New LEAF

With the retirement of LEAF founder and executive director Jennifer Pickering, Erinn Hartley has stepped up to spearhead the nonprofit’s next chapter. “My focus is on guiding LEAF through this pivotal time with clarity, collaboration, and intention,” she says. A 17-year LEAF veteran, Hartley began as a resident teaching artist then served as education director, helping to grow arts education programs in schools and communities. In 2024, she became co-executive director with Pickering.

“The most significant changes ahead are how and where we gather,” explains the new director. “We’ve reimagined our May retreat as a one-day, family-friendly event at Pisgah Brewing called Deep Roots (see page 117 for details). The day will be packed with music, food, workshops, vendors, and activities.” LEAF’s October retreat will relocate from its original Lake Eden setting to Deerfields in Horse Shoe. “Lake Eden holds deep meaning for so many, and we honor that history with gratitude. We also see real possibility at Deerfields, which offers a beautiful setting where LEAFers can once again gather, connect, and create memories together.”

LEAF’s core aim—to connect cultures and communities through world music, arts, and experiences—remains unchanged. “LEAF is still here, grounded in our mission and actively serving our community,” says Hartley. “What we need now is support: people showing up, spreading the word, and helping reinforce that LEAF is vital, vibrant, and worth investing in.”

_{Live Life Like a Festival, penned by founder Jennifer Pickering and original staffer James Nave, will be published this spring. The 240-page book shares how LEAF built a global village of musicians, teachers, change-makers, and creators. A portion of the proceeds will benefit LEAF’s Schools & Streets program, which provides school residencies, after-school programs, and community workshops.} 

Leaf Global Arts
(828) 686-8742, www.theleaf.org