Vermont Symphony Orchestra Announces Mel Reis as Senior Director

BURLINGTON, VT-Today, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is thrilled to announce new philanthropic leadership, effective in July, with the arrival of Mary Ellen (Mel) Reis. Ms. Reis will become Senior Director of Philanthropy and Communications for the Vermont Symphony Orchestra. Ms. Reis began her career as a member of the new product development team in marketing for Snapple Beverage Group. She returned to her roots in Vermont and has spent years working with the non-profit and education sector in development, innovative and successful fundraising, and marketing strategies in the Northeast Kingdom. Her knowledge of, experience with, and passion for the arts in Vermont, as well as the philanthropic community, are substantial.

"I am thrilled to join the Vermont Symphony Orchestra and work in the field of music-it is truly a dream come true. My family is dedicated to the arts and I am grateful for the opportunity to work for an organization that brings such joy to residents throughout our beautiful state. As the oldest state-assisted orchestra in the country, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra has a wonderful history and promising future. I look forward to sharing my experience, energy, and enthusiasm with a talented team and together, we will lift the Vermont Symphony Orchestra to new heights."

In her new role, she will work closely with the administrative staff to widen and deepen the patron base, update the development plan, and support external constituent communications. "We've found a real gem with Mel; she has decades of leadership experience with proven expertise in fundraising, development, and marketing." said Executive Director Ben Cadwallader. "Her expertise and talent will be a tremendous asset to the VSO as we continue to strengthen and refine the role of this exceptional Vermont institution."

Reis and her family live in Peacham, VT. Her husband Rodney is a fine arts teacher at St. Johnsbury Academy. Their son Jonathan studied bassoon at McGill University in Montreal and their daughter Rachel is studying Interior Design at Meredith College in Raleigh, NC.

The Vermont Symphony Orchestra is the only professional statewide orchestra. Under the leadership of Music Director Jaime Laredo since September 2000, the symphony, a state-assisted non-profit organization, was founded in 1935. It is heard year round through live performances in beautiful and diverse venues throughout the state. Its extensive education and community engagement programs reach children, young listeners and adults through community development and educational initiatives. The Vermont Symphony Orchestra has a deep commitment to new music, innovative programming, musical exploration, and fosters and encourages the appreciation of music in all its various forms.

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