Bio

Emily Kang Cantrell is a dynamic nonprofit and events leader with more than 20 years of experience spanning broadcast journalism, tourism and hospitality, and mission-driven work. She currently serves as President & CEO of the Seafair Charitable Foundation, where she leads one of the Pacific Northwest’s most iconic civic celebrations, including the Fourth of July festivities, Alaska Airlines Seafair Torchlight Parade, and Seafair Weekend Festival on Lake Washington.

Since taking the helm in 2024, Emily has introduced bold changes to modernize the festival while honoring its 76-year legacy. Her work has focused on strengthening community partnerships and building new pathways to long-term financial sustainability.

Previously, Emily served as Interim CEO at PROVAIL, one of Washington’s largest multi-service organizations supporting individuals with disabilities.

Emily serves on the boards of Cascade PBS, World Trade Center Seattle, and the Washington Festivals and Events Association, and is a Commissioner for the Seattle Sports Commission.

Emily is a survivor of the Route 91 mass shooting in Las Vegas, an experience that gave her a deeper understanding of how vital safety and trust are in shared public spaces. It’s a perspective that now informs her work leading events that bring people together with joy, purpose, and care. She holds an Executive MBA from the IE Brown program and remains passionate about storytelling, civic engagement, and building community through unforgettable experiences.