Wharton Arts, New Jersey's largest independent non-profit community performing arts education center, has appointed Carol Chickering Burden as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Burden brings more than two decades of leadership experience at the intersection of the arts, education, and youth development to the role.
"Since 1979, Wharton Arts has transformed music education across New Jersey," said Julia Sen, co-chair of the Board of Trustees. "We are thrilled to welcome Carol to lead us into our next half-century. We believe music changes lives, and Carol's dynamic background as an artist, educator, and executive makes her the perfect leader to champion our vision."
Burden's appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Wharton Arts as it strengthens its foundation, expands its reach, and advances its mission of providing accessible, high-quality performing arts education. Her experience includes organizational leadership, philanthropy, strategic planning, and community engagement. She joins from New York Junior Tennis & Learning, where she served as Director of Philanthropy. Previously, as President and CEO of Capital Harmony Works, she scaled the budget from $215,000 to $1.2 million and established the organization as a nationally recognized model for El Sistema–inspired creative youth development.
Said New Jersey Youth Symphony Music Director and Conductor Helen Cha-Pyo, "Carol is a highly respected arts leader whose impact on arts education and community engagement has been felt throughout New Jersey and beyond. I have had the privilege of working alongside her through the El Sistema New Jersey Alliance and have long admired her vision, collaborative spirit, and unwavering commitment to expanding access to the arts."
Burden also enjoyed a distinguished performing career as a soprano, appearing with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, New York City Opera, and the Houston Symphony Orchestra. She holds a Bachelor's from Amherst College, a Master of Music from The Juilliard School, and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University.
"Wharton Arts has built something rare—a community where people seeking every kind of experience, whether the amplification of youth voice, creative aging, or pre-professional music training, are met with seriousness, warmth, and the full resources of a world-class institution," said Burden. "To be trusted with its leadership is an honor I don't take lightly. I can't wait to get to work."
Wharton Arts serves nearly 2,000 students through its programs, including the New Jersey Youth Chorus, New Jersey Youth Symphony, Paterson Music Project, and Wharton Performing Arts School. For more information, visit WhartonArts.org.
