Wharton Arts has announced the appointment of Carol Chickering Burden as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Burden brings more than two decades of leadership experience at the intersection of the arts, education, and youth development to the role. Her selection comes at a pivotal time for the organization, which serves nearly 2,000 students across New Jersey through its various programs, including the New Jersey Youth Symphony, New Jersey Youth Chorus, Paterson Music Project, and the Wharton Performing Arts School.
“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 is expected to strengthen the organization's foundation, expand its reach, and advance its mission of providing accessible, high-quality performing arts education.
Burden joins Wharton Arts following three years as Director of Philanthropy at New York Junior Tennis & Learning, where she oversaw contributed income, major donor stewardship, and development planning. Prior to that, she served as President and CEO of Capital Harmony Works, where she scaled the organization's budget from $215,000 to $1.2 million, increased staff capacity, and strengthened equity-centered practices. Under her leadership, Capital Harmony Works became a nationally recognized model for El Sistema–inspired creative youth development. Burden also enjoyed a distinguished performing career as a soprano, performing with the Lyric Opera of Chicago, New York City Opera, Long Beach Opera, and the Houston Symphony Orchestra.
“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.” Burden's experience in organizational leadership, philanthropy, strategic planning, and community engagement positions her to lead Wharton Arts as it continues to serve students from 12 counties through programs in Berkeley Heights, New Providence, and Paterson.
New Jersey Youth Symphony Music Director and Conductor Helen Cha-Pyo expressed enthusiasm for the appointment. “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,” Cha-Pyo said. “As Wharton Arts enters an exciting new chapter of growth and opportunity, I am confident that Carol's leadership will build upon the organization's strong foundation and help shape an even brighter future.”
For more information about Wharton Arts, visit WhartonArts.org.
