The Columbus Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is delighted to announce the appointment of their new executive director, Kern Wadkins. The selection was made after a nationwide search and a selection process completed by the CSO's Board of Directors.

A Columbus native, Wadkins comes with a wealth of experience having worked in non-profit arts organizations, fine arts education, and marketing over the last twenty years. Wadkins says, "I know first-hand the impact our vibrant arts community has on the quality of life in Columbus. I am honored to steward the CSO into its next chapter"

Wadkins holds a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an M.Ed. from Columbus State University. Her love for the arts and education has been fostered through positions with the Springer Opera House, Columbus State University, St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School, and the Professional Arts Integration Resource (PAIR) Program.

Dr. Bonnie Ellis, President of the CSO Board of Directors comments, "We are thrilled that Kern Wadkins has accepted the position of executive director. She is passionate about Columbus and its arts community, and she will be a visionary leader for the CSO."

Be sure to join us for our 2023-24 Season. Season Ticket Subscriptions are currently on sale and can be purchased online at csoga.org/tickets, by mail, or in-person at the RiverCenter Box Office, Monday through Friday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM (Broadway entrance). Subscribers save up to 17% off the adult single ticket price, get first pick of the best seats, and avoid any online ticketing fees. Individual concert tickets will go on sale in September 2023.

The Columbus Symphony Orchestra, formed in 1855, is the second orchestra founded in the nation and the first founded in Georgia. The CSO, under the direction of George Del Gobbo, has long been considered one of the Southeast’s premier musical ensembles. The CSO’s performance venue at RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Bill Heard Theatre, seats 2,000 patrons and provides a state-of-the-art visual and acoustic experience. For more information about the CSO visit our website at csoga.org.

For release at 9am, 06.21.23