Leslie Anne Frye-Thomas is the External Affairs Associate at the Kenan Institute of Private Enterprise, where she leads strategic communications and stakeholder engagement efforts that support the institute’s mission to drive economic prosperity throughout North Carolina.

Leslie Anne brings deep experience in storytelling, public engagement, and cross-sector collaboration, with a focus on equity and impact. Prior to joining the institute, Leslie Anne held senior communications roles in international media and nonprofit organizations, leading content strategy, brand development, and public affairs.

An Emmy Award-winning writer, she is committed to using storytelling as a tool for systemic change and social advancement. Leslie Anne holds a Bachelor of Arts in Radio, Television, Video, and Film—with an emphasis in screenwriting—from California State University, Northridge.