Leslie is a 1985 graduate from LaSalle High School. After receiving her MFA in acting at DePaul University in Chicago, Leslie spent several years acting, directing, and teaching before moving back to Cedar Rapids. Among her many contributions to the Cedar Rapids community, Leslie is a founding member of the Classics at Brucemore, and opened the theatre company, Urban Theatre Project, which provides live theatre in unique spaces all over the city of Cedar Rapids. After the flood of 2008, Leslie played an integral role in the rebuilding of Theatre Cedar Rapids, proving that Leslie is passionate about keeping theatre alive in the Cedar Rapids community. Leslie is also a recipient of the Corridor Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 Award.