To my beloved community,

After a profoundly rewarding career stewarding the Cabrillo Festival for more than three decades, I have decided now to step down from my position as Executive Director after the 2023 season. While it is bittersweet, it is also a decision filled with great promise and possibility—for the Festival and for me.

This summer will mark my 33rd season and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve achieved together over these many years. Cabrillo Festival attracts open-minded, open-hearted, and adventurous souls, and it has been your generosity and dedication that remains a constant source of inspiration. The Festival’s greatest strength has been its brilliant artists and artistic partners, skilled and committed staff, dedicated and capable board members, and thoughtful and engaged patrons and donors—all passionate about the Festival’s mission and its enduring impact in the world. Being part of this remarkable community has been my greatest professional and personal joy.

As the Festival reemerges post-pandemic with Cristi Macelaru’s compelling artistic leadership and vision forging the way, it is a perfect time for us to embrace new administrative leadership, new energy, and new ideas to move the Festival forward into a new era of amazing artistry and community engagement. I’m so proud of my work with the Board and staff, and so excited that someone else will have the distinct privilege of joining this special organization and championing our unique mission.

2023 will be a season of great celebration–of the past, present, and future. I will continue on in an advisory role to ensure a smooth transition, and the Festival will forever hold a place in my heart and in my life. I remain committed to the important role it plays in the field of music and in the lives of our artists, audiences, and our local community; and I have confidence that the Festival will continue to flourish with your ongoing support.

My announcement comes with deep gratitude to you all for enriching my life in such meaningful ways. I can’t wait to celebrate the 2023 season with you this summer and wish you all a very healthy, happy new year until we’re together again.