HAMPTON ROADS, VA [January 21, 2022] – The Virginia Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce Nikki Thorpe as its first-ever Director of Diversity and Engagement.
In this new role, Thorpe will be the primary staff support for all the VSO’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiatives, partnering closely with the EDI Leadership Team, individual VSO staff members, and the Board of Directors. She will also help be responsible for the vision and execution of the VSO’s HARMONY project and other community-based concerts and events.
In making the announcement, President and CEO Karen Philion said, “Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for our efforts to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity and creating this new position is the logical next step to capitalize on our momentum. I’m thrilled for the opportunity to work with Nikki, whose energy, knowledge and enthusiasm stood out among a strong pool of applicants.”
Thorpe is a diversity professional who successfully provided strategic direction and advocacy around Equity, Diversity and Inclusion as a member of the executive leadership team at the Coalition for Christian Outreach in Pittsburgh, PA. She earned a Diversity Certificate from Cornell University and also helped the organization curate live music performances for annual conferences and training events.
Thorpe is also the founder of Music Industry Consulting Services (MICS) which provides expertise and resources for artists and organizations and manages arts events and concerts in venues across the country. She has initiated collaborations between the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra (PSO) and African-American vocalists and hip-hop artists. She has served as a member of the PSO’s Community Advisory Council and has been honored by the Pittsburg City Council for her community engagement. She is a member of the American Heart Association Multicultural Initiatives Executive Leadership Team, Ramah International Board of Directors, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Delta Kappa Honorary Leadership Fraternity and the International Music Department, Church of God in Christ, Inc.
Thorpe said, “The Virginia Symphony Orchestra has shown a true commitment to EDI and I am excited about the opportunity to continue this work with the organization, merging my love for the arts and diversity experience in this new role. As a Black woman, I identify with the challenges faced by members of marginalized populations and will diligently pursue opportunities to serve as a champion to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. I am also thrilled to have the privilege to engage the African American community in Hampton Roads with VSO musicians and staff in new and creative ways.”
Nikki and her husband, Chris, are relocating from Pittsburgh to be near family in Newport News. They are the proud parents of Christin, Nikolas, and CJ and grandparents to Ozzie.
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As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative.
The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Recent innovations include health and wellness programs, including interactive therapeutic experiences for people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and adopting welcoming concert environments for those who are neurodiverse. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, its programming, and its leadership.
The selection of the young and dynamic conductor Eric Jacobsen as music director earlier this year was another bold step forward for the VSO, further expanding its vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 21, 2022
Contact: Collin Norman, Director of Marketing & Communications
Phone: 757.213.1424
Email: cnorman@virginiasymphony.org
Twitter: @VASymphony
Facebook: facebook.com/virginiasymphony
