Bernadette McKelvey

Brief Biography

Bernadette holds a BFA from the University of Victoria and a Performing Arts Management Certificate from Capilano University. She has more than 25 years of experience in arts administration, marketing, event management and post-secondary education. Her early career included positions as Special Events Manager for Alberta Theatre Projects in Calgary and Group & Corporate Sales Manager for the Arts Club Theatre Company in Vancouver.

During her 17 years at Capilano University, Bernadette held a variety of roles spanning ticketing, venue management, administration and education, including Box Office Manager and General Manager of CapU's performing arts theatre. For many years, she also served as a faculty supervisor in their Arts & Entertainment Management program, working with students as they gained practical, hands-on experience in the industry.

Bernadette returned to the University of Victoria in 2023 as Marketing & Communications Manager for the Department of Theatre, where she oversees marketing and communications, and supports recruitment and outreach initiatives. She also teaches marketing to Theatre students through classroom instruction and work-integrated learning. Her broad background in arts management and education gives her a practical perspective grounded in both the professional arts sector and the student learning experience.