Wharton Arts, New Jersey's largest independent non-profit community performing arts education center, has announced the appointment of 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.
Burden's appointment comes at a pivotal time for Wharton Arts as it seeks to strengthen its foundation, expand its reach, and advance its mission of providing accessible, high-quality performing arts education. Julia Sen, co-chair of the Board of Trustees, expressed enthusiasm about the new leadership, stating, "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 previous roles include Director of Philanthropy at New York Junior Tennis & Learning, where she oversaw contributed income and major donor stewardship, and President and CEO of Capital Harmony Works. At Capital Harmony Works, she scaled the organization's budget from $215,000 to $1.2 million, increased staff capacity, and strengthened equity-centered practices, establishing it as a nationally recognized model for El Sistema–inspired creative youth development. Earlier in her career, Burden performed as a soprano with leading ensembles such as the Lyric Opera of Chicago, New York City Opera, and the Houston Symphony Orchestra.
New Jersey Youth Symphony Music Director and Conductor Helen Cha-Pyo praised Burden's appointment, saying, "Carol is a highly respected arts leader whose impact on arts education and community engagement has been felt throughout New Jersey and beyond. I am confident that Carol's leadership will build upon the organization's strong foundation and help shape an even brighter future."
Burden holds a Bachelor's degree from Amherst College, a Master of Music from The Juilliard School, and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from Duke University. She expressed her commitment to Wharton Arts' mission, stating, "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."
Wharton Arts serves nearly 2,000 students through a range of classes and ensembles, including the New Jersey Youth Chorus, New Jersey Youth Symphony, and the Paterson Music Project. The organization offers need-based scholarships to ensure accessibility. For more information, visit WhartonArts.org.
