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ANNOUNCEMENTS


OCTOBER 2024

OLYMPIA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ANNOUNCES THE DEPARTURE OF JENNIFER HERMANN AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 

Hermann leaves a legacy of strong administration, expanded programs, and deep community relationships
 

OLYMPIA, WA - After eight years serving the Olympia Symphony Orchestra (OSO), Jennifer Hermann has announced her departure from the Executive Director position. She will remain in the community, joining the Washington Center for the Performing Arts in the role of Director of Education & Community Engagement. The board has hired local arts professional Thom Mayes to join the OSO as Executive Director. Mayes and Hermann will work closely together until her departure in November.
 

“It has been a privilege to serve my community, witness the transformative power of music, and work alongside such talented and passionate musicians. I am grateful for every relationship and opportunity for growth this role has provided. I will keep the OSO close to my heart, both as a musician in the orchestra and as their biggest fan,” says Hermann.
 

After working as a performer and educator for years, she joined the orchestra as a guest artist before being brought on as the Executive Director. 
 

Under Hermann’s leadership, the orchestra weathered the global pandemic while undergoing a search for a new Music Director, Alexandra Arrieche, who joined the OSO in 2022. 
 

“Our organization has experienced tremendous advancement under Jennifer's eight years of leadership. Her genuine love and dedication to the success of the Olympia Symphony Orchestra, our musicians, and her unwavering commitment for music in the community are truly unmatched,” states Board President Lena Mendiola. 
 

As a musician and educator in the community, Hermann developed strong relationships within the thriving artistic community in Thurston County. She led efforts to bring the nationally recognized Link Up education program to over 800 Olympia School District students in 2024. During her tenure, the OSO expanded its budget and season programs while increasing compensation for musicians performing in the orchestra. 
 

Please take a moment to enjoy the photos below,
highlighting Jennifer's time with the Olympia Symphony.
For more information, click/tap the photo.

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