Meet the team

Rachael Crawford (she/her) is no stranger to the Plaza District. Prior to stepping into the role of Executive Director in July of 2021, Crawford served on the Plaza District Association 501c3 and Plaza Business Alliance 501c6 Boards of Directors for several years while employed at Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma. Her leadership has been recognized by 405 Business Magazine (The Metros’ Most Influential List, 2023), OKC Friday (50 Most Powerful Young Professionals nomination, 2020-2024), and the Oklahoma Gazette (Forty Under 40 award recipient, 2018). Crawford has helped lead the Plaza District to receive several awards including "Best Local District" by Oklahoma Gazette readers for the past two years (2023 + 2022) and by 405 Magazine (2023).

Outside of the Plaza District, Crawford has worked closely with Allied Arts, Oklahoma Pride Alliance, The Winds House, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma, Leadership Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Arts Council’s Leadership Arts program, and Arts Council Oklahoma City. She holds an Associate of Arts in Vocal Performance from Highland Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Marketing Communications from St. Ambrose University and is working toward completion of a Masters of Arts in Organizational Management.

"I am honored to serve in the role of Executive Director of the Plaza District. It aligns closely with what I am most passionate about: facilitating arts and community programming as a tool for growth and improved quality of life here in Oklahoma City. As a musician and neighbor of the Plaza, I've seen firsthand how nonprofits, artists, and small business owners can transform a community as evidenced right here in 16th Street Plaza District. As our city grows, I am excited to help the Plaza District develop and continue our mission.”