Ken Cole Named VP, Learning and Leadership Development of League of American Orchestras

League of American Orchestras President and CEO Jesse Rosen has announced the appointment of Ken Cole as vice president, learning and leadership development. Cole will lead the League's programs designed to identify and develop talent for America's orchestras. His responsibilities will include overseeing the League's National Conference; producing and managing the organization's professional development, artistic, and re-granting programs; as well as managing an expansive network of peer convenings among staff, trustees, volunteers, and conductors.

Cole will work at both the League and his current workplace, the National Guild for Community Arts Education, during a transitional period beginning June 2, and will assume fulltime duties at the League on September 2. He replaces Polly Kahn, who is stepping down in June after fourteen years at the League.

Rosen commented, "Ken is a seasoned, accomplished, and widely recognized leader in professional development in the arts who began his professional life as an orchestral musician. He is a perfect fit and I'm thrilled to welcome him to the League family."

Cole has served as associate director of the National Guild for Community Arts Education, the national service association for nonprofit arts education organizations, since 2008, joining the Guild as program director in 2004. During his tenure, he has overseen the Guild's program, communications, and marketing departments, developing and producing numerous national conferences and training events, publications, research studies, grant-making programs, and the Guild's Community Arts Education Resource Center. From 2001 to 2004, Cole served as director of advancement at the Levine School of Music in Washington, DC. Cole was also executive director of GALA Choruses, development director for the Fairfax Symphony Orchestra, and development associate for the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force. He was a professional violist for more than a decade, at Fairfax Symphony Orchestra (1987-1997) and Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra (1985-1987).

Cole received a Bachelor of Music in viola performance from Oberlin College Conservatory and a Master of Music in viola performance, Louisiana State University.

Photo credit: Preston Cross Photography

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