Leah Ecklund brings both heart and precision to every endeavor — a consummate helper whose instinct to support people and projects is matched by her talent for envisioning what lies ahead. An Enneagram Two with CliftonStrengths of input, empathy, futuristic, maximizer, and positivity, Leah has a rare ability to blend care and creativity, foresight and follow-through.

As a senior graphic artist and strategist, Leah is deeply future-focused, continually scanning the horizon to protect the integrity of work, people, and organizations. She thinks not only about what will work today but also how design, process, and leadership can create enduring strength tomorrow. With an unmatched eye for color, detail, typography, and visual storytelling, Leah brings flair to every project — while simultaneously anchoring the work with her trademark organization and process mastery.

Her career reflects that dual gift of artistry and administration. At the North Dakota State University Foundation, Leah transformed a blank slate into a thriving creative function, establishing visual strategy, brand identity, and design systems that continue to advance philanthropic impact. Previously, she directed creative vision for community-centered projects at First Avenue Promotions, shaping identities and campaigns that elevated client voices and built long-term value.

Within the Brain Trust, Leah is both a visionary and a safeguard: able to imagine possibilities that others might miss, while ensuring the details, timelines, and structures are flawlessly aligned. She maximizes potential at every turn, bringing optimism, artistry, and extraordinary care to the teams and missions she serves. Simply put: Leah makes the future brighter, more beautiful, and more possible.