Let’s talk about that legendary fundraising prowess that Erik was in awe of. While Kristine couldn’t pinpoint the exact weekly amount (modesty, we love to see it), she did share that she regularly pulled in around $20,000. But what made her approach brilliant wasn’t just about the ask.

“I think what I had were great mentors actually within the board itself,” Kristine explained, giving props to Jeff Barlow for those mock interviews and collaborative whiteboarding sessions. The real magic happened over coffee, lots and lots of coffee, where conversations led to referrals, which led to connections, which led to... well, you get the picture.

One of the most delightful parts of our conversation was learning about AIGA Seattle’s “Into the Woods” retreat (originally called “Design Camp” until they realized they couldn’t compete with the other Design Camp). Picture this: 120 designers unplugged in the Cascades, exploring five different design disciplines, getting lost in actual woods, and apparently setting things on fire.

“No mattress burning,” Kristine assured us, referring to the cycle before her tenure that got them temporarily banned from the Sleeping Lady resort. Her job? Make sure they can come back. Mission accomplished, though she admits there were still “healthy shenanigans,” including some folks who got lost and had to sleep overnight in the woods.

The retreat philosophy was beautiful in its simplicity: expand your thinking by learning from industrial design, architecture, experience design, and more. Digital devices were banned. Real craft and conversation were mandatory.

Perhaps most impressive is Kristine’s 30-year commitment to the AIGA Link program—connecting working professionals with youth in need through creative workshops. Started by AIGA Seattle board members during a time of community crisis, the program has given away $20K+ in scholarships annually and helped launch careers in everything from filmmaking to medicine.

“It’s just incredible what they do,” Kristine said, and you could hear the genuine pride in her voice. This isn’t just community service, it’s community building at its finest.

As I listened to Kristine’s story, I couldn't help but think about all the board positions and leadership opportunities we shy away from because we don’t feel qualified. Here’s someone who went from “pure terrified” to funding the design community in Seattle, not because she had a secret fundraising background, but because she had great mentors, genuine curiosity, and the willingness to fail forward.

Erik’s confession about his own sponsorship struggles (sorry, Erik!) only reinforced this point. Leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up, learning from mistakes, and building something bigger than yourself.

So here’s to Kristine Johnson: the reluctant fundraiser who became a legend, the community builder who’s still building, and the reminder that sometimes the best leaders are the ones who are brave enough to be scared.

Want to hear more stories like Kristine’s? Subscribe to Cheers & Tiers on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We’ll have more episodes featuring your friends and your favorite design leaders, sharing their journeys, challenges, and triumphs.

And if you're inspired to get involved with or learn more about AIGA Link, visit https://www.thelinkprogram.org/.

Please subscribe, rate, and review Cheers & Tiers: Design Leadership Tales Retold wherever you get your podcasts.