Bio

Mara Prausa is a collaborative and creative program manager with more than 15 years of experience designing and leading educational, nonprofit, and professional development initiatives. Her expertise includes customized corporate training, innovative program development, strategic planning, partnership cultivation, sponsorship acquisition, grant writing, budget management, marketing, and conference and event management. Throughout her career, she has worked across higher education, the arts, and community organizations to create meaningful learning experiences that address workforce and community needs. Drawing on her background as an educator, arts leader, and professional musician, Mara brings curiosity, creativity, and a people-first approach to every project, fostering collaboration, building strong relationships, and helping organizations navigate change while achieving their goals.

Experience and Interests

Professional

• Program management professional with extensive experience in continuing education, professional development, customized corporate training, strategic planning, partnership development, sponsorship acquisition, grant writing, budget management, marketing, and conference and event leadership.
• Previous career experience includes serving as a nonprofit executive director, professional pianist and touring artist, music educator, and university instructor, bringing a unique blend of creativity, collaboration, and people-centered leadership to program development and organizational growth.

Presentations

• UWSP CE Good Ideas Conference Presenter
• UW Statewide CE Program Managers Conference Presenter
• UWSP CE Chasing Autumn Presenter
• UWSP CE Reading Retreat Co-Founder