Wharton Arts Appoints Carol Chickering Burden as New President and Chief Executive Officer

GTTP

Carol Chickering Burden appointed as President and CEO to lead Wharton Arts into its next 50 years.
Proven track record in scaling nonprofit budgets and fostering equity-centered arts education programs.
Brings extensive experience from both high-level orchestral performance and executive nonprofit management.
Organization remains focused on increasing accessibility for students through robust scholarship and community programs.

Impact - Why it Matters

This appointment marks a pivotal evolution for Wharton Arts, signaling a shift toward sustainable growth and expanded community outreach. By leveraging Burden’s expertise in scaling mission-driven organizations, the institution is positioned to solidify its role as a national model for inclusive, accessible performing arts education and long-term youth development.

Summary

Wharton Arts has officially appointed Carol Chickering Burden as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, marking a strategic transition for New Jersey’s largest independent non-profit community performing arts education center. With over two decades of leadership experience in arts, education, and youth development, Burden is poised to guide the organization through its next half-century of growth and community impact.

Burden joins the organization with a distinguished background, including a successful tenure as President and CEO of Capital Harmony Works, where she significantly scaled operational capacity. Her expertise in philanthropy, strategic planning, and community engagement aligns perfectly with the mission of Wharton Arts to provide accessible, high-quality performing arts education. She also brings a unique perspective from her previous career as a professional soprano, having performed with globally recognized ensembles.

As Wharton Arts continues to expand its influence through the New Jersey Youth Symphony, the New Jersey Youth Chorus, and the Paterson Music Project, leadership believes Burden’s collaborative spirit will be transformative. Her appointment signals a renewed commitment to fostering inclusive environments where students of all backgrounds can thrive through the unifying power of music education.

Wharton Arts Appoints Carol Chickering Burden as New President and Chief Executive Officer

GTTP

Carol Chickering Burden appointed as President and CEO to lead Wharton Arts into its next 50 years.
Proven track record in scaling nonprofit budgets and fostering equity-centered arts education programs.
Brings extensive experience from both high-level orchestral performance and executive nonprofit management.
Organization remains focused on increasing accessibility for students through robust scholarship and community programs.