Dear CSO Family,

On behalf of the Charlotte Symphony Executive Committee and Board, I am pleased to announce very good news on two fronts!  First and foremost, Bob Stickler has agreed to assume the position of Interim Executive Director of the Charlotte Symphony.  Bob, a current CSO Board member, is retired from Bank of America, having served as Communications Executive supporting Ken Lewis, former Bank of America President, and a number of other business units there.

In his tasks on behalf of CSO, Bob has worked insightfully and effectively.  Bob was President of the Oratorio Singers Board from '08 through '10 and has served on various CSO committees.  Anything he undertakes is done in a straightforward, committed and upbeat way and his positive attitude is contagious.  I am certain that Bob will lead us through this interim period in great form and am delighted to welcome him to this position.

Bob will be in the office starting this Thursday and will be on board for Jonathan's final week and thereafter until a new Executive Director is in place.

On another front, former Board Chair and Interim Executive Director Rich Osborne has agreed to lead the Search Committee for a new Executive Director.  He will be forming a committee and launching the search process soon.  Rich has worked tirelessly for CSO over the past years and knows the needs and hopes of this organization as well as the qualities and talents necessary for the Executive Director.  I look forward to working with him in this ever important task.

With best regards,

Emily P. Smith

CSO Board Chairperson