#Willette Klausner #WMK Productions #Entertainment Industry

Willette Murphy Klausner: A Pioneer in Entertainment

In the realm of theater and film, few names resonate as profoundly as that of Willette Murphy Klausner. Recently acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional by The Inner Circle, Klausner's contributions to the entertainment industry span over four decades, making her a true trailblazer.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, California, Klausner broke numerous barriers throughout her career. She pursued her education at UCLA, where she made history as the first Black and first female senior class president. Balancing her academic pursuits with work, she earned a Bachelor's degree in economics while also becoming the first Black model to appear in an American fashion magazine.

After graduation, she continued to ascend through the corporate ranks, becoming the first Black female merchandising executive at Bloomingdale's in New York. Her path eventually led her back to Los Angeles, where she transitioned into advertising and marketing research, ultimately becoming the Vice President of West Coast Operations at Audience Studies, Inc. Here, Klausner collaborated with premier brands like General Motors, Coca-Cola, and Procter & Gamble, solidifying her reputation as an expert in marketing strategies.

Klausner's groundbreaking achievements continued as she made history yet again at MCA Universal Studios, where she served as the first female Vice President of Marketing and Marketing Research. Her innovative marketing campaigns contributed to the success of iconic films such as Jaws, Animal House, and The Blues Brothers. Her efforts laid the groundwork for the successful promotion of numerous films, reflecting her unique understanding of audience engagement and market trends.

Beyond her impressive corporate achievements, Klausner's artistic pursuits have also garnered her accolades. In 2022, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award from The Drama League, underscoring her influence on the theater scene. Her production credits include critically acclaimed works like Hadestown, MJ the Musical, and The Wiz. Currently, she is engrossed in developing new musicals, demonstrating her commitment to nurturing fresh talent and innovative storytelling in the arts.

Klausner hasn't just made waves professionally; she actively supports the next generation of artists. Serving on the boards for the Coalition for African Americans in the Performing Arts and the American Cinema Foundation, she emphasizes the importance of representation in the performing arts. Her versatility and dedication extend to organizations such as the Women in Film Foundation, further demonstrating her commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in the arts.

Outside her professional life, Klausner attributes much of her success to her upbringing. Raised in a dynamic household where the values of hard work and passion for food were celebrated, she carries forward those principles in her own life. Alongside her husband, Manuel Klausner, a prominent attorney and co-founder of the Reason Foundation, they have built a legacy of achievement while exploring their culinary interests. Together, the couple, often referred to as