At Fleisher’s upcoming 35th Annual Founder’s Celebration, we will honor Lindsey Scannapieco, a visionary who is transforming underutilized spaces in Philadelphia into thriving, vibrant communities for artists and creative entrepreneurs. (Buy your ticket today!) 

You may know Lindsey as the creative force behind the Bok Building’s revitalization and the upcoming redevelopment of former UArts Hamilton and Furness Halls. Here at Fleisher, we know her as a long-time supporter and friend. In this Q&A, Lindsey reflects on her journey, her connection to Fleisher, and what it means to shape welcoming, creative spaces. 

You’ve led the transformation of some of Philadelphia’s most iconic buildings. What first drew you to working with underutilized spaces?

I’ve always been drawn to spaces of possibility. Underutilized buildings hold stories that deserve to be honored, and it is a shame when we allow iconic and important community spaces to sit empty and unused. I love the challenge of turning what others might overlook into something alive again, something useful, beautiful, and joyful. These spaces aren’t blank slates—they’re layered, textured, and deeply rooted in their neighborhoods. That’s what makes them worth working with. 

You served on Fleisher’s board for six years—what led you to Fleisher? And what did you learn during your tenure?

I came to Fleisher as someone who believed in its mission instinctively, but I stayed because of how seriously the organization takes access, equity, and community care. Fleisher is not just a place for making art—it’s a place where people are seen, welcomed, and empowered. 

What does Fleisher mean to you personally? Professionally?

Personally, Fleisher has been a space of inspiration and grounding. It reminds me why I do this work—not just to build things, but to build relationships. Professionally, it’s a model of how cultural institutions can evolve with integrity. Fleisher stays rooted while still reaching forward. That’s something I aspire to in all of my work. 

How do your values and goals as a leader in urban transformation align with Fleisher’s?

We share a belief that place matters—and that everyone deserves access to places where they feel inspired and valued. Fleisher works at the intersection of art and equity, and so do we. Whether it’s activating a former school or envisioning a new creative hub, the goal is always to create spaces that welcome, support, and uplift. 

What does it mean to you to be Fleisher’s 2025 Founder’s Celebration honoree?

It’s deeply meaningful. Fleisher has been a quiet but powerful influence in my life for many years. To be recognized by an organization I respect so much—one that’s shaped the city I love—is incredibly humbling. It’s not just a personal honor; it’s a reminder that the work we do in built space has a ripple effect, and that those ripples matter. 

What’s one thing you hope people take away from the Founder’s Celebration this year? 

That transformation isn’t always loud. Sometimes it looks like a room being opened or a person being welcomed in their native language. I hope people leave feeling connected—to each other, to Fleisher, and to the idea that creative work can be a force for community, healing, and joy.

To hear more from Lindsey and celebrate Fleisher’s mission, join us on 6/14 for the Founder’s Celebration! Tickets are available here.