SSO Executive Director Leaving for New Position

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Symphony Orchestra announced that Executive Director Audrey Szychulski will resign her post with the orchestra to accept the position of director of development with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic.

Her departure will be effective March 3, 2015. The SSO will immediately initiate a search process for both a new executive director and a development director — two roles that Szychulski performed during the last year.

Members of the orchestra’s leadership responded to the news with gratitude for Szychulski’s accomplishments and with well wishes for her in her future role. “Audrey bought a great deal of energy and creativity to her work here in Springfield,” said SSO President John Chandler. “She was especially successful in strengthening our sponsor relationships and improving the business planning of the orchestra. We are fortunate to be able to navigate this transition with a strong staff, a deeply committed board, and a vibrant base of fans, sponsors, and contributors.”

Chandler further noted Szychulski’s efforts to build the profile of the Springfield Symphony during her time as executive director. “With Audrey’s help, we’ve built an excellent foundation for further outreach in the community. We are certainly grateful for the fact that the symphony is well-positioned to continue to expand our audience base — in no small part due to the quality and professionalism of both our musicians and Maestro Kevin Rhodes.”

According to Chandler, the orchestra will continue to operate under an interim director as the board of trustees begins a nationwide search for the two vacant positions.