Judith Rodin Joins New World Symphony's Board Of Trustees

The New World Symphony, America's Orchestral Academy, announces the election of Dr. Judith Rodin to its Board of Trustees.

Dr. Rodin is a pioneer, innovator, change-maker, and global thought-leader. For over two decades Rodin led and transformed two global institutions: The Rockefeller Foundation and the University of Pennsylvania. A ground-breaking executive throughout her career, Dr. Rodin is the first woman to lead an Ivy League Institution and the first woman to serve as The Rockefeller Foundation's president. A research psychologist by training, she is known for her work in the behavioral medicine and health psychology movements.

Now in its 30th anniversary academic season, New World Symphony (NWS) is gaining national and global attention for its cutting edge educational and artistic accomplishments. Guided by the vision of founding artistic director Michael Tilson Thomas, NWS Fellows pursue a practical, experiential curriculum based on artistic excellence and leadership. MTT, Fellows, staff, and strategic partners are expanding the definition of orchestral performance and audience growth. The institution's digital capabilities inform this cutting-edge work. Along with global impact, NWS is making a difference in Miami. Frank Gehry's architecture of invitation and NWS' commitment to community engagement are contributing to a stronger, more resilient city.

During Dr. Rodin's tenure, The Rockefeller Foundation entered a new era of strategic philanthropy that emphasized partnerships with business, government, and the philanthropic community to address the complex challenges of the 21st century. There are parallels in the development of the New World Symphony. In the creation of the New World Center, NWS crafted a dynamic public private partnership with government agencies in South Florida. NWS has forged relationships with distinguished music schools and professional orchestras in this country and around the globe, discovering inventive ways to honor the past and shape the future of education and classical music.

"Music and the arts have a unique power to transcend borders, erase divisions, and bind us together with joy," said Dr. Rodin. "I am excited to bring my experience and passion to New World Symphony and to join a wonderful group of fellow Trustees and the extraordinary Michael Tilson Thomas as we work to expand world-class musical opportunities in the vibrant city of Miami and globally."

Reflecting on her election to the board of trustees, Michael Tilson Thomas said, "Judy understands my personal commitment to each of our Fellows and my pride in the accomplishments of our alumni. She is a deeply thoughtful person who will challenge us to create an ever more meaningful program. I am eager to have her as a partner in the growth and development of the unique work of the New World Symphony."

As chairman of the board, Edward Manno Shumsky said, "The New World Symphony is poised for the next phase of growth. Judy Rodin knows how to build strategies that unlock creative, innovative forces. She will inspire us to look beyond the horizon, to imagine an institutional platform that encourages experimentation and risk. We welcome her to our leadership."

The New World Symphony, America's Orchestral Academy (NWS), prepares graduates of music programs for leadership roles in professional orchestras and ensembles. In the 30 years since its co-founding by Artistic Director Michael Tilson Thomas and Lin and Ted Arison, NWS has helped launch the careers of more than 1000 alumni worldwide.

A laboratory for the way music is taught, presented and experienced, the New World Symphony consists of 87 young musicians who are granted fellowships lasting up to three years. The fellowship program offers in-depth exposure to traditional and modern repertoire, professional development training and personalized experiences working with leading guest conductors, soloists and visiting faculty. Relationships with these artists are extended through NWS' extensive distance learning via the internet.

NWS Fellows take advantage of the innovative performance facilities and state-of-the art practice and ensemble rooms of the Frank Gehry-designed New World Center, the campus of the New World Symphony and home of the Knight New Media Center.

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