Austin Barrow
Chief Operating Officer
Austin Barrow (he/him) has not been able to stop grinning at his luck since starting as the Chief Operating Officer for the Crystal Cove Conservancy. The amazing, friendly team and dedicated volunteer board have masterfully created an inviting and welcoming environment for park patrons. Working with our CEO Kate, Austin is excited to assist in the final phase of cottage restoration for the Historic District, promoting and supporting the environmental education programs, and protecting this awe-inspiring corner of cultural and natural historic beauty for future generations.
Although most people told him an art degree would never take him that far, he has found that the combination of creativity and collaboration is an additive source for all organizations. With a couple of (ahem) decades of education and nonprofit work under his belt, Austin looks forward to bringing his operational experience to this growing organization.
Before joining the conservancy Austin served as President/COO for the Murphy Arts District in El Dorado, Arkansas. He was a fellow founder of the nonprofit which he led to creating a six-city block, multi-venue arts district with multiple stages, restaurants, heritage parks, and children’s playscape. Building the organization from the ground up he developed a specialty in organizational structure, development, and historical renovation.
Austin earned his master’s degree from the University of Arkansas (Woo Pig Sooie!) in 2008 and went on to become a professor of the theater before taking on an executive management role in nonprofits. He lives in Laguna Beach with his wife and two children, and they are even more excited than he is that, “Daddy works so close to the beach. We can visit every day!”
Contact: austin@crystalcove.org