Deacon Spotlight: Katie Wolf
Katie Wolf (2013, BA in Studio Art, Minor in Art History)
Chief of Staff, Reynolda House Museum of American Art & Reynolda Gardens and Adjunct Faculty, UNC School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC
Tell us about your current job role and employer. What are you currently working on?
I’m the Chief of Staff at Reynolda House Museum of American Art and Reynolda Gardens, where I serve on the senior leadership team and help connect the dots between leadership, staff, and the boards of directors. I’m also an adjunct faculty member at UNC School of the Arts, where I teach courses in arts management. Mostly, I teach university level courses on personal finance and financial literacy for artists. I love my work because it’s a direct way to support the arts in North Carolina.
What key personal and/or career experiences led you to where you are today?
After I graduated from Wake Forest, I was a Wake Forest Fellow at START Gallery. I continued working on campus at the Hanes Art Gallery in the Scales Fine Art Center while I earned my MBA focusing on non-profit management in the arts.
What advice would you give to Wake Forest graduates about developing their personal life habits after college (finances, health, values, work/life balance)?
Having a healthy financial foundation gives you options – your creativity and career choices all benefit when you’re not constantly stressed about money. Start by having some kind, honest conversations about money, honor your values, and build intentional habits that give you options and breathing room. If you want a judgment‑free chat about your situation, especially as an artist or creative person, I’m happy to talk.
We know that relationships are important for any kind of development. How do you build and maintain your network?
I’ve found that most people feel really happy to help someone that is sincere and clear about what they want and need. Don’t be afraid to reach out and develop relationships with people who can help you. If someone asked you for your help or advice, wouldn’t you do your best? I’d bet you would.
Tell us about your mentoring relationships. What impact have these relationships had on your career and life?
Mentorship has been everything for me – I wouldn’t be where I am without my mentors. I’m lucky enough to have several mentors across different aspects of my life: professional mentors, artist mentors, mother mentors, and spiritual mentors. They often anticipate what I need before I know myself.
What advice would you give to current Wake Forest students and/or young alumni who are interested in working in your industry?
Bring with you a genuine passion for art and let that fuel your work – be curious, show up, and be as consistent as you can be. Of course the practical skills matter, but let your joy be the thing people remember.
Story published in July 2026. For current updates about Katie, visit her LinkedIn profile.