Inside PDA: Jonathan Griffith on Creativity, Connection, and Chapter Support

Since 2021, Jonathan Griffith has been an integral part of PDA’s staff team, serving in a variety of roles and becoming a trusted partner to our Chicago, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Detroit, and Wisconsin Chapters. As a Chapter Relations Manager, he helps ensure that chapters and members receive the support they need to thrive.

With a professional background rooted in the creative and nonprofit worlds, he has worked on everything from promoting art grants to building sponsorships for one of the country’s top independent arthouse theaters and even writing for an award-winning publication. This diverse experience continues to inform his work at PDA, where he brings creativity, insight and historical knowledge that newer staff often lean on.

Currently, he serves as staff liaison to the National Membership Council, supporting its work alongside PDA’s Membership Director, Kimberly Aldworth, to strengthen Chapter leadership and create resources that guide Chapter membership chairs. He describes his role with characteristic humbleness— “just there to keep the vehicle in motion”—but his colleagues know he’s been a steady hand in important milestones such as expanding membership through online outreach, shaping chapter succession planning, and contributing to the success of PDA’s first National Conference, PRISM.

What he values most about PDA is the spirit of collaboration: “The volunteers at PDA are extraordinarily vital to our success. Their unique backgrounds, perspectives, and enthusiasm are pillars of everything from programming to membership outreach.” For him, the camaraderie among staff and volunteers alike makes the work especially rewarding.

Outside of the office, Griffith lives a quiet life in Southeast Michigan where he enjoys the local food and coffee. When not engaged in his various creative endeavors, he can often be found watching movies or simply enjoying the nature trails that surround his home.

Whether he’s supporting Chapter leaders, collaborating with colleagues, or pursuing creative projects, Griffith’s dedication, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for people make him a valued member of the PDA team. As he reflects, “I feel fortunate to do work that’s both creative and meaningful—it’s rewarding to know that what I do helps Chapters succeed and members feel supported.”